The first heat pump was developed by Lord Kelvin in the late 1800's.
Commercial heat pumps are used as part of air handling systems to transfer heat in commercial or industrial areas. Commercial heat pumps serve to reduce energy consumption by transferring heat to localized areas, thereby, reducing usage of the main heating system. Heat pumps basically transfer heat from high areas to low areas when in operation. They can be used efficiently for air or water handling. In addition, most commercial heat pumps, unlike industrial furnaces, heat and cool, which makes them cost-effective as well as energy-efficient. They consist of a condenser, fan motor, compressor, capacitor, controls, reversing valve, metering device, thermostat and valves. Commercial heat pumps used for air conditioning also have defrost boards that work in sync with reversing valves to switch the pump from heating to cooling to provide air-controlled ambient room temperatures. The metering device provides an accurate temperature range while also monitoring air pressure drop inside the condenser coil and maintains proper humidity levels.
HVAC experts will size the heat pump needed, based on overall area, for the most efficient heat treating and transfers, as well as make determinations on air pressure throughput at inlets and outlets of the system. Commercial heat pumps are used in water heaters and to heat large commercial swimming pools. Depending upon the use of a commercial heat pump for heating and cooling or water heating systems, heat pumps are an alternative to complex HVAC systems that reduce facility space and add energy costs.
Troubleshooting
Commercial heat pumps
Even with regular use, commercial heat pumps require minimal maintenance. Make sure all electricity to the unit is turned off before performing any troubleshooting. The thermostat should be re-calibrated according to manufacturer's recommendations. The fan motor should remain free of dust and debris and be checked for any signs of wear as well as noting any unusual problems with blade rotation. Also, fan motors require adequate lubrication periodically. Check the capacitor for any signs of leaks. This can be done with a leak detection analyzer. Also check relay terminals for signs of weakness. With regard to electrical troubleshooting, it's important to check the hot gas sensor control and the high pressure control switch. The hot gas sensor control should remain in a "closed" position to avoid automatic shut-off of the unit. This principle is also true of the high pressure control switch. It should also be in a closed position. Check all switches on the unit for signs of corrosion. The condensor coil must remain clean to avoid overcharging. When replacing parts on the commercial heat pump, first consult the manufacturer's operations and maintenance manual for the correct part numbers. Do not attempt to replace parts with non-manufacturer's substitutes. This will cause the unit to fail to operate up to manufacturer's specifications.
Good Maintenance Procedures - A Long-Term Investment
With minimal maintenance on a
Commercial heat pump, the return on the investment into this energy-efficient system is long-term.
