These high-efficiency systems feature inverter-driven variable capacity technology, which dynamically adjusts capacity and airflow, unlike systems that simply turn on or off. Air circulates more precisely and quietly, maximizing comfort while reducing energy consumption.
Demand for air source heat pumps is forecast to increase 2.5 percent per year through 2021 to $2.1 billion. Air source heat pumps comprise a significant amount of total heat pump demand, largely due to the easier installation requirements and lower initial costs than geothermal heat pumps. Air source heat pumps also compete more directly with other HVAC equipment and are a viable heating and cooling option in most buildings.
While many educational sessions were presented at the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration (AHR) Expo, perhaps the most popular was the course on global HVAC trends offered by the Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA).
While ductless heat pumps have grabbed the spotlight in recent years, central air-source heat pumps still remain popular, as evidenced by the new products on display at the AHR Expo.
U.S. shipments of central air conditioners and air-source heat pumps totaled 425,882 units in October 2016, up 7.3 percent from 396,922 units shipped in October 2015, according to the latest statistics from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).