How do RCCs differ from heat pumps?
Heat pumps consist of two main parts: an evaporator and a compressor. The evaporator vaporizes the refrigerant (working fluid), generating energy in the process, which is lost as heat. The vapor produced is heated in the compressor and then circulated through an air handler, thus providing heat to the room. With decrease in outside temperatures, the evaporator is unable to vaporize the refrigerant effectively, resulting in decreased efficiency. Evaporators also require to be protected from freeze damage and must occasionally be run in a defrost cycle. In the defrost cycle, the refrigerant flow reverses, to melt the ice deposits on the outdoor coil, making use of internal heat. This causes cold air to circulate in the home, which defeats the purpose of heating it in the first place.
In reverse cycle chillers, the energy generated by the evaporator is transferred to a component known as the heat exchanger. This allows water to be heated up to 50˚C or cooled to 10˚C. The water line can be configured to supply heat through a central handler, multiple zoned air handler or radiant floor heating system. When the water flows back to the evaporator, it passes through a super insulated tank. The tank acts as a thermal flywheel and supplies heat to the evaporator, to help it continue to vaporize the refrigerant and also carry out its defrost cycle. Thus, RCCs not only supply heat at a constant level but also they are more efficient in their operation.
What are the benefits of RCCs?
Reverse cycle chillers can operate in extreme temperature conditions hence they can be used in a variety of climates. RCCs are compatible with both radiant floor heating systems and air handlers so it is easy to install and operate RCCs along with existing system arrangements. The wide range of temperatures produced by an RCC makes it capable of delivering a high level of comfort to occupants of the house. In addition, an optional attachment can be connected to the RCC, which uses the waste heat generated to heat the water used for tasks like washing, bathing, etc.