Abstract
M.Ing.
In this study the performance of a reversible ground-source heat pump, coupled to a municipal water
reticulation system, is compared experimentally and with simulations with a conventional air-source
heat pump for space cooling and heating. A typical municipal water reticulation system comprises
hundreds of kilometres of pipes designed in loops that will ensure adequate circulation of the water.
This results in a substantial heat exchanger with great potential. Indirect heat transfer occurs
between the refrigerant and ground via the municipal water reticulation system that acts as the
water-to-ground heat exchanger. The experimental and simulated comparisons of the ground-source
system to the air-source system are conducted in both the cooling and heating cycles.
Climatalogical statistics are used to calculate the capacities and coefficients of performance of the
ground-source and air-source heat pumps. Results obtained from measurements and simulations
indicate that the utilisation of municipal water reticulation systems as a heat source/sink is a viable
method of optimising energy usage in the air-conditioning industry, especially when used in the
heating mode.