State-of-the-art Survey of Existing Knowledge for the Design of Ground-source Heat Pumps

The objectives of the program reported here were to gather design and performance information on historical and current ground-coil heat-pump systems, to assess the adequacy of available design methods, and to define near-future R&D needs to promote the use of this technology. The project was generally separated into two parts: (1) a review of the North American technology conducted by Battelle-Columbus, and (2) a review of European technology conducted by Battelle-Frankfurt. The report includes descriptions of basic ground-coil design configurations, operating experience, design methodologies, and reviews of costs of existing installations. It is found that further design-method development efforts are necessary to provide installers and manufacturers with pertinent design information in order to stimulate further implementation of ground-coupled heat pumps in the United States. Furthermore, a research effort is needed to develop parametric data on the design and performance of a ground-coil during cooling using heat and moisture models.