How to Choose the Energy Efficiency Rating of an Air Source Heat Pump?
In the frigid winters of northern China, where temperatures can drop to -25°C, it is essential to prioritize ultra-low temperature air source heat pumps with a Level 1 energy efficiency rating. This is crucial for ensuring the heat pump operates efficiently, stably, and economically under extremely cold conditions. Ordinary Level 3 or lower energy efficiency heat pumps experience significant heat output reduction at low temperatures, with their COP value potentially falling below 2.0, even less than electric heating, failing to meet continuous heating needs.
1. Why is a Level 1 energy efficiency air source heat pump essential? —Based on dual considerations of low-temperature performance and economy
1) Low-temperature COP performance: COP ≥ 2.0 at -25℃, some high-end heat pumps can reach above 2.5. COP drops below 1.8 at -15℃, and may shut down at -25℃.
2) Heating capacity attenuation rate: High-quality heat pumps have an attenuation rate ≤ 30%, ensuring basic heating capacity. Attenuation rate exceeding 50% is prone to failure in extreme weather.
3) Average annual operating cost: More than 50% energy saving compared to gas-fired wall-hung boilers, and more than 70% energy saving compared to electric heating. Energy saving advantages are significantly reduced, and energy consumption may even exceed gas-fired boilers during certain periods.
4) Technical configuration: Generally equipped with core technologies such as vapor injection enthalpy enhancement, full DC inverter, and intelligent defrosting. Most use fixed-frequency compressors and lack low-temperature enhanced design.
* Conclusion: In extremely cold northern regions, energy efficiency rating is not only an energy-saving indicator but also a lifeline for the normal operation of equipment.
2. How to identify a truly "high-efficiency" air source heat pump? —Identify Key Parameters and Standards
1) Check the measured COP value under low-temperature conditions
* Don't just look at the nominal COP at 20℃; pay attention to the heating COP at "-12℃" and "-25℃" in the air source heat pump's instruction manual or test report.
* Recommended standard: COP ≥ 2.4 at -12℃, COP ≥ 2.0 at -25℃
2) Confirm compliance with national mandatory energy efficiency standards
* The current effective standard is GB 37480-2019, which requires air source heat pumps to have a COP ≥ 2.4 at -12℃ for Level 1 energy efficiency.
* The new national standard GB 19577-2024, implemented from February 1, 2025, further raises the bar; it is recommended to prioritize air source heat pumps that meet the new standard.
3) Pay attention to HSPF (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Factor for Heating)
* HSPF reflects the overall energy efficiency of the heat pump throughout the heating season and is more valuable than the COP alone.
* Level 1 energy efficiency heat pumps typically have an HSPF ≥ 3.6. Users in northern regions should prioritize this type of air source heat pump.
3. Brand and Local Compatibility Recommendations: Dual Guarantee of Technology and Service
In northern regions, in addition to energy efficiency ratings, the quality of heat pump installation and after-sales service response capabilities must also be considered:
1) Recommended Air Source Heat Pump Brands (with proven performance at -25℃)
* Gree: The Yujin series uses dual-stage compression technology and is widely used in "coal-to-electricity" projects in northern China.
* Midea: The Tianyue series has an APF of over 4.8, reaching "super-first-class energy efficiency."
* Leomon: Verified in Mohe at -41℃, with a -25℃ attenuation rate ≤25%.
* Zhongguang Outes: Its 60HP ultra-low temperature unit was used in the 19,000㎡ heating project at Anyang No. 37 Middle School, operating stably at -35℃.
2) Localized Service Requirements
* Choose air source heat pump brands with service outlets in northern China to ensure rapid response to winter malfunctions.
* Require the installation team to provide a "System Commissioning Report," including key data such as pressure, temperature, and current.
