Double Duct Packaged Terminal Heat Pump Field Demonstration

The proposed project is a demonstration of an emerging high efficiency heat pump product for multifamily space conditioning applications. This project will demonstrate the application of Double Ducted Packaged Terminal Heat Pumps (DDPTHP) in a low-income multifamily new construction project in the PG&E service territory in Daly City, CA. The product can enable cost-effective electrification and energy efficient heat pump usage in multifamily buildings and lodging. The DDPTHP product provides space heating and cooling in a single package for each apartment. This eliminates the on-site handling of refrigerants and refrigerant lines, simplifying and reducing installation costs and harmful refrigerant emissions. The DDPTHP products are installed inside the multifamily unit on a perimeter wall and rely on two 8” duct penetrations through the wall to provide air to the evaporator/condenser coils. This technology is an alternative to the products currently on the market including variable refrigerant flow (VRF), ductless heat pumps, and typical packaged terminal heat pumps (PTHPs). The field study will monitor a sample of the units in the participating building following International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP) guidelines for retrofit isolation with key parameter measurement. Analysis of the representative sample dataset will allow for normalized performance and conclusions for the statewide market. Costs, benefits, and contrasts to a baseline PTHP will be analyzed and quantified. Although the field demonstration will be conducted in a new construction building, recommendations and feasibility for retrofit applications will be discussed. Recommendations for program support, product roadmap, and best applications will be provided based on the study findings.