CHAPTER 3. MARKET AND TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 3­1
 

3.1.1 Definitions............................................................................................................ 3­1
 

3.1.2 Equipment Classes............................................................................................... 3­2
 

3.1.2.1 Existing Federal Equipment Classes........................................................ 3­3
 

3.1.2.2 Rulemaking Equipment Classes .............................................................. 3­3
 

3.2 MARKET ASSESSMENT.............................................................................................. 3­6
 

3.2.1 Trade Association ................................................................................................ 3­6
 

3.2.2 Manufacturers and Market Share......................................................................... 3­7
 

3.2.2.1 Small Businesses...................................................................................... 3­9
 

3.2.3 Regulatory Programs ........................................................................................... 3­9
 

3.2.3.1 Current Federal Energy Conservation Standards..................................... 3­9
 

3.2.3.2 ASHRAE Energy Conservation Standards for PTACs and PTHPs...... 3­11
 

3.2.3.3 ASHRAE Continuous Maintenance Process......................................... 3­12
 

3.2.3.4 State Energy Conservation Standards.................................................... 3­12
 

3.2.3.5 Canadian Energy Conservation Standards............................................. 3­12
 

3.2.3.6 Mexican Energy Conservation Standards.............................................. 3­13
 

3.2.4 Non­Regulatory Programs................................................................................. 3­14
 

3.2.4.1 ENERGY STAR.................................................................................... 3­14
 

3.2.4.2 Rebate Programs.................................................................................... 3­14
 

3.2.5 Shipments........................................................................................................... 3­15
 

3.2.5.1 Unit Shipments....................................................................................... 3­15
 

3.2.5.2 Value of Shipments................................................................................ 3­16
 

3.2.6 Industry Cost Structure ...................................................................................... 3­17
 

3.2.7 Equipment Lifetime ........................................................................................... 3­19
 

3.2.8 Market Performance Data.................................................................................. 3­19
 

3.3 TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT.................................................................................. 3­28
 

3.3.1 Baseline Equipment Components and Operation .............................................. 3­29
 

3.3.2 Technology Options........................................................................................... 3­29
 

3.3.2.1 Scroll Compressors................................................................................ 3­29
 

3.3.2.2 Variable­Speed Compressors................................................................. 3­30
 

3.3.2.3 Higher Efficiency Compressors............................................................. 3­30
 

3.3.2.4 Complex Control Boards ....................................................................... 3­30
 

3.3.2.5 Higher Efficiency Fan Motors............................................................... 3­31
 

3.3.2.6 Microchannel Heat Exchangers............................................................. 3­31
 

3.3.2.7 Increase Heat Exchanger Area............................................................... 3­31
 

3.3.2.8 Material Treatment of Heat Exchanger.................................................. 3­32
 

3.3.2.9 Recircuiting Heat Exchanger Coils........................................................ 3­32
 

3.3.2.10 Improved Air Flow and Fan Design .................................................... 3­33
 

3.3.2.11 Heat Pipes ............................................................................................ 3­33
 

3.3.2.12 Corrosion Protection ............................................................................ 3­34
 

3.3.2.13 Clutched Motor Fans............................................................................ 3­34
 

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3.3.2.14 Thermal Expansion Valves.................................................................. 3­34
 

LIST OF TABLES

Table 3.1.1 Existing Federal Equipment Classes for PTACs and PTHPs.................................. 3­3

Table 3.1.2 Equipment Classes for PTACs and PTHPs............................................................. 3­6

Table 3.2.1 Large Manufacturers of Standard Size PTACs and PTHPs .................................... 3­7

Table 3.2.2 Other Manufacturers of Standard Size PTACs and PTHPs..................................... 3­7

Table 3.2.3 PTAC and PTHP Manufacturers AHRI Members .................................................. 3­8

Table 3.2.4 PTAC and PTHP Manufacturers Non­AHRI Members with AHRI Certified

Equipment.................................................................................................................................... 3­8

Table 3.2.5 Current Federal Energy Conservation Standards for PTACS and PTHPs............ 3­10

Table 3.2.6 ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 Energy Efficiency Levels for PTACs and PTHPs3­11

Table 3.2.7 ACEEE Proposed Revision to ASHRAE 90.1­1999 Minimum Efficiency

Requirements for PTACs and PTHPs........................................................................................ 3­12

Table 3.2.8 Canadian Energy Conservation Standards for PTACS and PTHPs ...................... 3­13

Table 3.2.9 2006 CIR PTAC and PTHP Industry Shipments (Domestic and Import in Thousands

of Units) ..................................................................................................................................... 3­16

Table 3.2.10 2006 AHRI Total PTAC and PTHP Industry Estimated Shipment Data (Standard

and Non­Standard)..................................................................................................................... 3­16

Table 3.2.11 PTAC and PTHP Manufacturing Statistics by Year............................................ 3­17

Table 3.2.12 Commercial Air Conditioning and Warm Air Heating Equipment Industry

Employment and Earnings......................................................................................................... 3­17

Table 3.2.13 Commercial Air­Conditioning and Warm Air­Heating Equipment Industry Census

Data............................................................................................................................................ 3­18

Table 3.2.14 Industry Cost Structure Using SEC Data............................................................. 3­19

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 3.2.1 Number of Certified Standard Size PTAC Models by Cooling Capacity – June 2008

AHRI Directory and Manufacturer Catalogs............................................................................. 3­20

Figure 3.2.2 Number of Certified Standard Size PTHP Models by Cooling Capacity – June 2008

AHRI Directory and Manufacturer Catalogs............................................................................. 3­21

Figure 3.2.3 Non­Standard Size PTAC Models by Cooling Capacity – Manufacturer Catalogs....

.................................................................................................................................................... 3­22

Figure 3.2.4 Non­Standard Size PTHP Models by Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing R22 Refrigerant –Manufacturer Catalogs..................................................................................... 3­23

Figure 3.2.5 Standard Size PTAC EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing R­22

Refrigerant – 2008 AHRI Directory .......................................................................................... 3­24

Figure 3.2.6 Standard Size PTHP EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing R­22

Refrigerant – 2008 AHRI Directory .......................................................................................... 3­25

Figure 3.2.7 Non­Standard Size PTAC EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing

R­22 Refrigerant –Manufacturers’ Catalogs.............................................................................. 3­26

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Figure 3.2.8 Non­Standard Size PTHP EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing R22 Refrigerant – Manufacturers’ Catalogs................................................................................. 3­26

Figure 3.2.9 Standard Size PTHP COP versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing R­22

Refrigerant – 2008 AHRI Directory .......................................................................................... 3­27

Figure 3.2.10 Non­Standard Size PTHP COP versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing

R­22 Refrigerant – Manufacturers’ Catalogs............................................................................. 3­28

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CHAPTER 3. MARKET AND TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
 

3.1 INTRODUCTION
 

This chapter details the market and technology assessment that the U.S. Department of

Energy (DOE) has conducted in support of the ongoing energy conservation standards

rulemaking for packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs) and packaged terminal heat pumps

(PTHPs). It consists of two sections: the market assessment and the technology assessment.

The goal of the assessment is to develop a qualitative and quantitative characterization of

the PTAC and PTHP industry and market structure based on publicly available information and

data and information submitted by manufacturers and other stakeholders. Publicly available

information includes the equipment certification directory from the Air­Conditioning, Heating,

and Refrigeration Institutea (AHRI), as well as Current Industry Reports (CIR) and Annual

Survey of Manufactures (ASM) from the U.S. Census Bureau. DOE addressed the following

issues: (1) manufacturer characteristics and market shares, (2) existing regulatory and nonregulatory efficiency improvement initiatives, (3) equipment classes, and (5) trends in the

equipment markets and their characteristics. DOE used the technology assessment to develop a

preliminary list of technologies (referred to as technology options) that can improve the energy

efficiency of PTACs and PTHPs.

PTACs and PTHPs are self­contained heating and air­conditioning units encased inside a

sleeve specifically designed to go through the exterior building wall. The basic design of a

PTAC is comprised of a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, a fan, and an enclosure. Basic

PTHPs feature additional items to those found in PTACs, such as more sophisticated metering

devices, a reversing valve, and more sophisticated controls. All manufacturers offer PTACs and

PTHPs with supplemental heating, with some offering a myriad of add­on options. PTACs and

PTHPs are easily installed by inserting them into the wall sleeve and plugging them into an

electrical outlet. They are primarily used to provide space conditioning for commercial facilities

such as hotels and motels, assisted living facilities, hospitals, apartments, dormitories, schools,

and offices.

3.1.1 Definitions

The Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) defines a “packaged terminal air

conditioner” as “a wall sleeve and a separate unencased combination of heating and cooling

assemblies specified by the builder and intended for mounting through the wall. It includes a

prime source of refrigeration, separable outdoor louvers, forced ventilation, and heating

a AHRI, formerly referred to as the Air­Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI), is the trade association

representing PTAC and PTHP manufacturers. ARI and the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (GAMA)

announced on December 17, 2007, that their members voted to approve the merger of the two trade associations to

represent the interests of cooling, heating, and commercial refrigeration equipment manufacturers. The merged

association became AHRI on Jan. 1, 2008.

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availability by builder's choice of hot water, steam, or electricity.” (42 U.S.C. 6311(10)(A))

DOE has incorporated this definition into its regulations at 10 CFR Part 431.92.

EPCA defines a “packaged terminal heat pump” as “a packaged terminal air conditioner

that uses reverse cycle refrigeration as its prime heat source and should have supplementary heat

source available to builders with the choice of hot water, steam, or electric resistant heat.” (42

U.S.C. 6311(10)(B)) DOE has incorporated this definition into its regulations at 10 CFR Part

431.92.

The Federal energy conservation standards for PTACs and PTHPs are represented in

terms of the energy efficiency ratio (EER) and the coefficient of performance (COP) as defined

by the ARI 310/380­2004 Standard for Packaged Terminal Air­Conditioners and Heat Pumps

(ARI 310/380­2004) test procedure. EER is defined as “the ratio of the produced cooling effect

of an air conditioner or heat pump to its net work input, expressed in Btu/watt­hour.” COP is

defined as “the ratio of the produced cooling effect of an air conditioner or heat pump (or its

produced heating effect, depending on the mode of operation) to its net work input, when both

the cooling (or heating) effect and the net work input are expressed in identical units of

measurement.” DOE has incorporated these definitions and test procedures into its regulations at

10 CFR Part 431.92 and 10 CFR Part 431.96, respectively.

When installed, PTACs and PTHPs are fitted into a wall sleeve. There is a wide variety

of wall sleeve sizes found in different buildings. These wall sleeves are market driven (i.e., the

applications or facilities where the PTACs or PTHPs are installed is what determines the “market

standard” wall sleeve dimension) and require manufacturers to offer various PTACs and PTHPs

that can fit into various wall sleeve dimensions. For new units, the industry has standardized the

wall sleeve dimension for PTACs and PTHPs in buildings over the past 20 years to be 16 inches

high by 42 inches wide. Therefore, units that have a wall sleeve dimension of 16 inches high by

42 inches wide are considered “standard size” equipment and all other units are considered “nonstandard size” equipment. In contrast, the industry does not have a common wall sleeve

dimension that is typical for all older existing facilities. These facilities, such as high­rise

buildings found in large cities, typically use non­standard size equipment. In these installations,

altering the existing wall sleeve opening to accommodate the more efficient, standard size

equipment could include extensive structural changes to the building, could be very costly, and is

therefore, rarely done.

3.1.2 Equipment Classes

When evaluating and establishing energy conservation standards, DOE generally divides

covered equipment into equipment classes by the type of energy used or by capacity or other

performance­related features that affect efficiency, considering factors such as the utility of such

feature(s) to users. (See 42 U.S.C. 6295(q).) Different energy conservation standards may apply

to different equipment classes. PTACs and PTHPs can be divided into various equipment

classes categorized by physical characteristics that affect equipment efficiency. Key

characteristics are the physical dimensions of the equipment based on the wall sleeve dimensions

and cooling capacity of the equipment.

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3.1.2.1 Existing Federal Equipment Classes

EPACT 1992 amended section 342 of EPCA to include energy conservation standards for

PTACs and PTHPs based on the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and AirConditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)/Illuminating Engineering Society of North America

(IESNA) Standard 90.1­1989. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(3)). The existing Federal energy conservation

standards correspond to the efficiency levels in ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1989, as shown in

Tables 1 and 2 of the 10 CFR Part 431.97, divide PTACs and PTHPs into six equipment classes.

These equipment classes are differentiated by equipment (i.e., air conditioner or heat pump) and

by cooling capacity in Btu/h. The current PTAC and PTHP equipment classes are shown in

Table 3.1.1.

Table 3.1.1 Existing Federal Equipment Classes for PTACs and PTHPs

Equipment Class

Equipment Cooling Capacity

PTAC

< 7,000 Btu/h

≥ 7,000 Btu/h and ≤ 15,000 Btu/h

> 15,000 Btu/h

PTHP

< 7,000 Btu/h

≥ 7,000 Btu/h and ≤ 15,000 Btu/h

> 15,000 Btu/h

3.1.2.2 Rulemaking Equipment Classes

When ASHRAE amended the efficiency levels for PTACs and PTHPs in 1999, it

acknowledged the physical size constraints among various sleeve sizes on the market.

Consequently, ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999, “Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low­Rise

Residential Buildings” (ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999) used the equipment classes defined by

EPCA, which are distinguished by whether the equipment has reverse cycle heating (i.e., air

conditioner or heat pump) and cooling capacity in Btu/h, and further separated these equipment

classes by wall sleeve dimensions.

ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 refers to wall sleeve dimensions in two categories: “New

Construction” and “Replacement.” ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 does not describes “New

Construction,” but Table 6.21D, footnote b of ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 states that

replacement efficiencies apply only to units: (1) “factory labeled as follows: Manufactured for

Replacement Applications Only; Not to be Installed in New Construction Projects”; and (2)

“with existing wall sleeves less than 16 in. high and less than 42 in. wide.” DOE understands

that the “New Construction” category under ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 is residual, and

covers all other PTAC and PTHPs. Hence, this category consists of equipment with wall sleeve

dimensions greater than or equal to 16 inches high and greater than or equal to 42 inches wide, or

lacking the requisite label. In addition, when ASHRAE approved ASHRAE Standard 90.­1999,

not only did it include delineations by wall sleeve dimensions, but it also associated these

delineations with specified efficiency levels. The efficiency levels associated with non­standard

equipment, or “Replacement” equipment, are significantly less stringent than those associated

with standard size equipment, or “New Construction” equipment.

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AHRI recently submitted a continuous maintenance proposal on PTAC and PTHP

equipment to the ASHRAE Standard 90.1 committee, which in part suggests alterations to the

delineations within ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 for standard and non­standard size

equipment.b AHRI believes ASHRAE misclassified approximately one­third of the non­standard

size market when it adopted ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999. AHRI believes the one third of the

non­standard size market subject to the more stringent standards under ASHRAE Standard 90.1­

1999 are not capable of meeting the efficiency levels specified by ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999

for standard size equipment due to the physical size constraints of the wall sleeve. For example,

a PTAC or PTHP unit with wall sleeve dimensions of 16.5 inches high and 27 inches wide would

be classified as standard size equipment under ASHRAE’s delineations and would be required to

meet the higher efficiency levels specified by ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999. However, since

this unit does not have the industry standard wall sleeve dimension of 16 inches high by 42

inches wide, AHRI believes these units are solely non­standard units that are used in very old

buildings and should therefore be considered as replacement units. Due to the space limitations

typically associated with non­standard size PTACs and PTHPs, manufacturers have few options

to increase energy efficiency. As noted above, many of the existing buildings cannot be

retrofitted to accommodate larger wall sleeves associated with more efficient standard­size units.

In response to this apparent misclassification within ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999,

AHRI proposed a continuous maintenance proposal to ASHRAE that includes a new definition

for non­standard size PTACs and PTHPs in place of the “replacement” delineation in ASHRAE

Standard 90.1­1999. The new definition of non­standard size PTACs and PTHPs reads:

“equipment with existing sleeves having an external wall opening of less than 16 in. high or less

than 42 in. wide, and having a cross­sectional area less than 670 in2

.” ASHRAE incorporated

this new definition into Addendum t to ASHRAE Standard 90.1­2007. Additionally, on June 22,

2008, ASHRAE Standard 90.1’s committee voted to officially approve the publication of

Addendum t to ASHRAE Standard 90.1­2007 for PTACs and PTHPs.

Therefore, for this PTAC and PTHP rulemaking, DOE defined the equipment classes by

wall sleeve dimensions, equipment, and cooling capacity for PTACs and PTHPs consistent with

the delineations contained within Addendum t to ASHRAE Standard 90.1­2007. In addition,

DOE will use the guidelines in Addendum t to ASHRAE Standard 90.1­2007 to differentiate

between various wall sleeve dimensions. In particular, DOE will refer to PTACs and PTHPs

with wall sleeve dimensions greater than or equal to 16 inches high or greater than or equal to 42

inches wide, and having a cross­sectional area greater than or equal to 670 inches squared as

“standard size” PTACs and PTHPs for the purpose of this rulemaking. For PTACs and PTHPs

with wall sleeve dimensions less than 16 inches high or less than 42 inches wide, and having a

cross­sectional area less than 670 inches squared, DOE will refer to the equipment as “nonstandard size” PTACs and PTHPs. The twelve equipment classes covered by this rulemaking for

b Air­Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute. Continuous Maintenance Proposal on Package Terminal Equipment.

October 5, 2007.

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PTACs and PTHPs are listed in Table 3.1.2 and correspond to those contained in Addendum t to

ASHRAE Standard 90.1­2007.

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Table 3.1.2 Equipment Classes for PTACs and PTHPs
 

Equipment Class

Equipment Category Cooling Capacity

PTAC

Standard Size*

<7,000 Btu/h

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h

>15,000 Btu/h

Non­Standard Size**

<7,000 Btu/h

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h

>15,000 Btu/h

PTHP

Standard Size*

<7,000 Btu/h

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h

>15,000 Btu/h

Non­Standard Size**

<7,000 Btu/h

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h

>15,000 Btu/h * Standard size refers to PTAC or PTHP equipment with wall sleeve dimensions having an external wall opening of

greater than or equal to 16 inches high or greater than or equal to 42 inches wide, and having a cross­sectional area

greater than or equal to 670 inches squared. ** Non­standard size refers to PTAC or PTHP equipment with existing wall sleeve dimensions having an external

wall opening of less than 16 inches high or less than 42 inches wide, and having a cross­sectional area less than 670

inches squared.

3.2 MARKET ASSESSMENT

The following market assessment identifies manufacturer trade associations, domestic

and international manufacturers of PTACs and PTHPs and their corresponding market shares,

and regulatory and non­regulatory programs. The assessment also provides historical shipment

data, describes the cost structure for the PTAC and PTHP industry, and summarizes relevant

market performance data.

3.2.1 Trade Association

DOE identified AHRI as the only trade group that supports, or has an interest in, the

PTAC and PTHP industry.

Formed in 1953, AHRI, previously known as ARI, is the national trade association

representing manufacturers of more than 90 percent of North American produced central airconditioning and commercial refrigeration equipment. AHRI develops and publishes technical

standards for residential and commercial equipment using rating criteria and procedures for

measuring and certifying equipment performance. The DOE test procedure is an AHRI standard.

In performance certification, AHRI uses extensive laboratory testing. AHRI participates in

developing international standards and has established a policy of adopting international

standards for use in the United States when technological and economically feasible.1

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AHRI has developed a certification program that the majority of the manufacturers in the

PTAC and PTHP industry have used to certify their equipment. Manufacturers certify their own

equipment by providing AHRI with test data. AHRI evaluates the test data and determines if the

equipment conforms to ARI 310/380­2004. Once AHRI has determined that the equipment has

met all the requirements under ARI 310/380­2004 standards and certification program, it is

added to a directory of certified equipment. DOE used AHRI’s certification data, as summarized

by the 2008 AHRI directory of certified PTACs and PTHPs, in the engineering analysis (Chapter

5 of this Technical Support Document (TSD)).

3.2.2 Manufacturers and Market Share

DOE identified five large manufacturers of standard size PTAC and PTHP that hold

approximately 90 percent of the market in terms of shipments. Table 3.2.1 shows these

manufacturers.

Table 3.2.1 Large Manufacturers of Standard Size PTACs and PTHPs

General Electric (GE) Company

Carrier Corporation

Amanac

Traned

McQuay International

Five other manufacturers listed in Table 3.2.2 hold the remaining 10 percent of the standard size

PTAC and PTHP market shares.

Table 3.2.2 Other Manufacturers of Standard Size PTACs and PTHPs

Friedrich Air Conditioning Company

Fedders Corporation

Sanyo Fisher Corporation

LG Electronics

Heat Controller, Inc.

DOE estimated market share data for standard size PTAC and PTHP manufacturers using

publicly available data including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) 10­K reports

filed by publicly owned manufacturers and Appliance Magazine’s The Share­of­Market Picture

for 2006 report.2

The standard­size PTAC and PTHP market differs from the non­standard PTAC and

PTHP industry in that many of the manufacturers are domestically owned with manufacturing

facilities located outside of the United States. Currently there is only one major manufacturer of

c Amana is a trademark of Maytag Corporation and is used under license to Goodman Global, Inc. More
 

information about the company can be found at http://www.amana­ptac.com/.
 d Trane is a trademark and business of American Standard companies.
 

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standard­size PTAC and PTHP equipment manufacturing equipment in the United States. In

addition, there has been a recent trend in the PTAC and PTHP standard­size market for foreign

owned companies to enter and sell equipment in the United States.

The non­standard size PTAC and PTHP market is shared by three major manufacturers

including McQuay International, RetroAiree

, and Fedders Islandaire Inc.,f and several smaller

manufacturers including Cold Point Corporationg and Ice Air. Out of the total market, Fedders

Islandaire Inc. holds the majority of market, while McQuay International and RetroAire hold a

substantial part of the remaining market shares in terms of shipments. Other identified small

manufacturers of non­standard size PTAC and PTHP are Applied Comfort Products, Inch and

Comitale National, Inc. Market share data for non­standard size PTAC and PTHP manufacturers

was estimated using publicly available data including the SEC 10­K reports filed by publicly

owned manufacturers.

Table 3.2.3 shows current AHRI members, with parent companies shown in parentheses,

if applicable.

Table 3.2.3 PTAC and PTHP Manufacturers AHRI Members

Carrier Corporation Trane (American Standard)

Amana (Goodman Global, Inc.) RetroAire (ECR International)

McQuay International Friedrich Air Conditioning Company

Source: These PTAC and PTHP manufacturers were listed as of February 2008 at

http://www.ahrinet.org/membercompanies.html

All of the member companies have certified their equipment under AHRI’s PTAC and PTHP

certification program. The companies that are not AHRI members use AHRI and ASHRAE test

procedures and standards to rate the performance of their equipment. Manufacturers are able to

certify their equipment under AHRI’s PTAC and PTHP certification program without being

members of AHRI. Table 3.2.4 shows a list of manufacturers that certify PTACs and PTHPs

under AHRI’s PTAC and PTHP certification program but are not members of AHRI.

Table 3.2.4 PTAC and PTHP Manufacturers Non­AHRI Members with AHRI Certified

Equipment

GE Company

Sanyo Fisher Corporation

LG Electronics

e ECR International brands its PTAC and PTHP equipment under the RetroAire brand name. More information
 

about the company can be found at http://www.retroaire.com.
 f Fedders Corporation brands its non­standard PTAC and PTHP equipment under the Fedders Islandaire brand name.
 

More information about the company can be found at http://www.islandaire.com.
 g Cold Point brands its non­standard PTAC and PTHP equipment under the Adirondack­Aire brand name. More
 

information about the company can be found at http://www.coldpointcorp.com.
 h Applied Comfort Products Inc. is a manufacturer of non­standard size PTAC and PTHP and is located in Canada.
 

More information about the company can be found at http://www.ptacs.com.
 

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3.2.2.1 Small Businesses

DOE recognizes that small businesses may be particularly affected by the promulgation

of amended energy conservation standards for PTACs and PTHPs. The Small Business

Administration (SBA) defines small business manufacturing enterprises for PTACs and PTHPs

as having 750 employees or fewer.3 SBA lists small business size standards that are matched to

industries described in the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). A size

standard is the largest that a for­profit concern can be and still qualify as a small business for

Federal Government programs. These size standards are generally the average annual receipts or

the average employment of a firm. For PTACs and PTHPs, the size standard is matched to

NAICS code 333415, Air­Conditioning and Warm Air Heating Equipment and Commercial and

Industrial Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturing, which has a size standard of 750 employees.

DOE further studied the potential impacts on these small businesses in detail and

presented the results in the manufacturer impact analysis (MIA) (Chapter 12 of this TSD). DOE

has identified the following small business PTAC and PTHP manufacturers:

• RetroAire

• Friedrich Air Conditioning Company

• Ice Air

• Cold Point Corporation

• Applied Comfort Products, Inc.

• Comitale National, Inc.

3.2.3 Regulatory Programs

The following section details current regulatory programs mandating energy conservation

standards for PTACs and PTHPs. Section 3.2.3.1 discusses current Federal energy conservation

standards; section 3.2.3.2 discusses ASHRAE’s continuous maintenance process; and section

3.2.3.3 provides an overview of existing State standards. Sections 3.2.3.4 and 3.2.3.5 review

standards in both Canada and Mexico that may affect the companies servicing the North

American market.

3.2.3.1 Current Federal Energy Conservation Standards

Part C of Title III of EPCA addresses the energy conservation standard of certain types of

commercial and industrial equipment, such as electric motors, air conditioners, and furnaces. (42

U.S.C. 6311­6317) The energy conservation standards set forth in EPCA for commercial and

industrial heating, ventilating, air­conditioning, and water heating equipment generally

correspond to the energy efficiency levels in the ASHRAE Standard 90.1. The statute provides

that if ASHRAE Standard 90.1 is amended after that date for any of these equipment (and for

certain other equipment), the Secretary of Energy must establish an amended uniform national

standard at the new minimum level for each effective date specified in ASHRAE Standard 90.1,

unless the Secretary determines, through a rulemaking supported by clear and convincing

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evidence, that a more stringent standard is technologically feasible and economically justified

and would result in significant additional energy conservation. (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(A))

The current Federal energy conservation standards for PTACs and PTHPs apply to all

equipment manufactured on or after January 1, 1994, (42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(3)), and correspond to

the minimum efficiency levels in ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1989. Table 3.2.5 presents the current

Federal energy conservation standards for PTACs and PTHPs from section 97 of 10 CFR Part

431.

Table 3.2.5 Current Federal Energy Conservation Standards for PTACS and PTHPsi

Equipment Class Existing Federal

Equipment Cooling Capacity Energy Conservation Standards*

PTAC

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 8.88

>7,000 Btu/h and

<15,000 Btu/h EER = 10.0 – (0.16 x Cap**)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 7.6

PTHP

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 8.88

COP = 2.7

>7,000 Btu/h and

<15,000 Btu/h

EER = 10.0 – (0.16 x Cap**)

COP = 1.3 + (0.16 x EER)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 7.6

COP = 2.5

Equipment Class Existing Federal

Equipment Cooling Capacity Energy Conservation Standards*

PTAC

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 8.88

>7,000 Btu/h and

<15,000 Btu/h EER = 10.0 – (0.16 x Cap**)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 7.6

PTHP

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 8.88

COP = 2.7

>7,000 Btu/h and

<15,000 Btu/h

EER = 10.0 – (0.16 x Cap**)

COP = 1.3 + (0.16 x EER)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 7.6

COP = 2.5

* For equipment rated according to the Air­Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) standards, all EER values

must be rated at 95oF outdoor dry­bulb temperature for air­cooled products and evaporatively­cooled products and at

85oF entering water temperature for water cooled products. All COP values must be rated at 47oF outdoor dry­bulb

temperature for air­cooled products, and at 70oF entering water temperature for water­source heat pumps.

** Cap means cooling capacity in kBtu/h at 95oF outdoor dry­bulb temperature.

Current Federal energy conservation standards for PTACs and PTHPs were taken from Table 1 and Table 2 of 10

CFR 431.97.

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3.2.3.2 ASHRAE Energy Conservation Standards for PTACs and PTHPs

On October 29, 1999, ASHRAE’s Board of Directors approved ASHRAE Standard 90.1­

1999, which addressed efficiency standard levels for 34 categories of commercial heating,

ventilating and air­conditioning (HVAC) and water heating equipment covered by EPCA,

including PTACs and PTHP.

Table 3.2.6 shows the efficiency levels in ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 for PTACs and

PTHPs.

Table 3.2.6 ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 Energy Efficiency Levels for PTACs and PTHPs

Equipment Class Proposed Energy

Conservation Standards* Equipment Category Cooling

Capacity

PTAC

Standard Size**

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 11.0

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h EER = 12.5 – (0.213 x Cap††)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 9.3

Non­Standard Size†

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 9.4

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h EER = 10.9 – (0.213 x Cap††)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 7.7

PTHP

Standard Size**

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 10.8

COP = 3.0

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h

EER = 12.3 – (0.213 x Cap††)

COP = 3.2 – (0.026 x Cap††)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 9.1

COP = 2.8

Non­Standard Size†

<7,000 Btu/h EER = 9.3

COP = 2.7

≥7,000 Btu/h and

≤15,000 Btu/h

EER = 10.8 – (0.213 x Cap††)

COP = 2.9 – (0.026 x Cap††)

>15,000 Btu/h EER = 7.6

COP = 2.5

* For equipment rated according to ARI standards, all EER values must be rated at 95oF outdoor dry­bulb
 

temperature for air­cooled products and evaporatively­cooled products and at 85oF entering water temperature for
 

water cooled products. All COP values must be rated at 47oF outdoor dry­bulb temperature for air­cooled products,
 

and at 70oF entering water temperature for water­source heat pumps.
 

** Standard size refers to PTAC or PTHP equipment with wall sleeve dimensions greater than or equal to 16 inches
 

high, or greater than or equal to 42 inches wide.
 † Non­standard size refers to PTAC or PTHP equipment with wall sleeve dimensions less than 16 inches high and
 

less than 42 inches wide. ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 also includes a factory labeling requirement for nonstandard size PTAC and PTHP equipment as follows: “MANUFACTURED FOR REPLACEMENT
 

APPLICATIONS ONLY; NOT TO BE INSTALLED IN NEW CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.”
 †† Cap means cooling capacity in kBtu/h at 95oF outdoor dry­bulb temperature.

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3.2.3.3 ASHRAE Continuous Maintenance Process

On September 23, 2005, the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy

(ACEEE) submitted a proposed changejto ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 under ASHRAE’s

process of continuous maintenance.4 ACEEE proposed revising minimum efficiency

requirements for PTACs and PTHPs in Table 6.8.1D of ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 by

replacing the current efficiency equations with more stringent ones. The proposed efficiency

levels were derived from analyses undertaken by ACEEE using retail price data. ACEEE’s

proposed revision of the minimum efficiency requirements for PTACs and PTHPs are shown in

Table 3.2.7. ASHRAE has rejected ACEEE’s proposed revisions to the standards.

Table 3.2.7 ACEEE Proposed Revision to ASHRAE 90.1­1999 Minimum Efficiency

Requirements for PTACs and PTHPs5

Category Current ASHRAE Standard 90.1­

1999 minimum efficiency levels ACEEE Proposed Standard

PTAC, cooling mode, new

construction 12.5­(0.213*CAP) EER 14.1­(0.274*CAP) EER

PTAC, cooling mode, replacement 10.9­(0.213*CAP) EER 12.0­(0.155*CAP) EER

PTHP, cooling mode, new construction 12.3­(0.213*CAP) EER 14.0­(0.287*CAP) EER

PTHP, cooling mode, replacement 10.8­(0.213*CAP) EER 12.8­(0.209*CAP) EER

PTHP, heating mode, new construction 3.2­(0.026*CAP) COP 3.8­(0.051*CAP) COP

PTHP, heating mode, replacement 2.9­(0.026*CAP) COP 2.85 COP for CAP < 9500

3.0 COP for CAP > 9500

CAP = capacity in 1000 Btu/hr

3.2.3.4 State Energy Conservation Standards

DOE recognizes that pursuant to EPCA, states may petition to have more stringent energy

conservation standards than those codified into law by DOE (see 42 U.S.C. 6297(d)). DOE has

not yet granted a petition to any state to establish more stringent energy conservation standards

than the levels established by EPCA for PTACs and PTHPs.

3.2.3.5 Canadian Energy Conservation Standards

The Natural Resources Canada Office of Energy Efficiency regulation mandates

minimum energy conservation standards for PTACs and PTHPs. These standards apply to

factory­assembled PTACs and PTHPs intended for use in residential, commercial, and industrial

j

ACEEE’s proposed change to ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 can be found in the Energy Efficiency Program for

Commercial and Industrial Equipment: Efficiency Standards for Commercial Heating, Air­Conditioning and Water

Heating Equipment Docket No. EE­RM­STD­03­100, EE­RM­STD­03­200, and EE­RM­STD­03­300, ACEEE,

Comment No. 27.

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heating and cooling systems.5 The current standards went into effect November 15, 2006, and

are shown in Table 3.2.8.

Table 3.2.8 Canadian Energy Conservation Standards for PTACS and PTHPs6

Equipment Type Minimum Efficiency Ratio

PTAC EER New Construction

(cooling)*

12.5 ­ (0.213 x cap/293.1)†

(12.5 ­ (0.213 x cap/1000))

PTAC EER Replacement

(cooling)

10.9 ­ (0.213 x cap/293.1)

(10.9 ­ (0.213 x cap/1000))

PTHP EER New Construction

(cooling)

12.3 ­ (0.213 x cap/293.1)

(12.3 ­ (0.213 x cap/1000))

PTHP EER Replacement

(cooling)

10.8 ­ (0.213 x cap/293.1)

(10.8 ­ (0.213 x cap/1000))

PTHP COP New Construction

(heating)**

3.2 ­ (0.026 x cap/293.1)

(3.2 ­ (0.026 x cap/1000))

PTHP COP Replacement††

(heating)

2.9 ­ (0.026 x cap/293.1)

(2.9 ­ (0.026 x cap/1000))

*EER = Energy efficiency ratio – a ratio calculated by dividing the cooling capacity in Btu per hour by the power

input in watts at any given set of rating conditions

**COP =Coefficient of performance – a ratio for both the cooling and heating modes calculated by dividing the

capacity expressed in watts by the power input in watts, excluding any supplementary heat

†cap = The rated cooling capacity in watts (upper formula) or Btu/h (lower formula).

††Replacement units are to be labeled according to the requirements of CAN/CSA C744­04

3.2.3.6 Mexican Energy Conservation Standards

Although Mexico has minimum energy conservation standards for air conditioners and

heat pumps in general, it currently does not have minimum energy conservation standards for

PTACs and PTHPs.

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3.2.4 Non­Regulatory Programs

3.2.4.1 ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR,k a voluntary labeling program backed by the U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) and DOE, identifies energy­efficient products through a qualification

process. To qualify, a product must exceed Federal minimum standards by a specified amount,

or if no Federal standard exists, exhibit selected energy saving features. The ENERGY STAR

program recognizes the top quartile of products on the market, meaning that approximately 25

percent of equipment on the market meet or exceed the ENERGY STAR levels. DOE is

developing an ENERGY STAR program for PTACs and PTHPs.

3.2.4.2 Rebate Programs

DOE has identified and reviewed various local utility rebate programs. These include the

Platte River Power Authority (PRPA) Cooling Rebate Program, Xcel Energy ConservationWise

Program, Modesto Irrigation District Commercial Power Saver Rebate Program, Shakopee

Public Utilities Commercial and Industrial Energy­Efficient Cooling, CPS Energy 2007 Energy

Rebate Program, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) Energy Efficiency Rebates, and the

Southern California Edison (SCE) Multifamily Energy Efficiency Rebate Program.

PRPA, an organization that generates and delivers electricity to its owner communities of

Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland, Colorado, offers customers cash rebates for

upgrading standard and non­standard size PTACs and PTHPs to energy­efficient units through

its Cooling Rebate Program. The rebate includes all cooling capacities of PTACs and PTHPs

that achieve or exceed 11.0 EER.6

Xcel Energy promotes the installation of energy­efficient equipment through the

ConservationWise Program. Rebates are available to the utility’s commercial customers. Under

this program, commercial business with PTACs can receive a base payment of $7.50 per ton for

units rated at 9.20 EER and $1.50 per ton for every incremental increase of 0.1 EER above base

requirements.7

Modesto Irrigation District’s Commercial Power Saver Rebate Program offers

commercial, industrial, and agricultural customers cash rebates for the purchase and installation

of energy­efficient standard and non­standard size PTACs and PTHPs. Cash rebate amounts

vary by capacity and EER, with $125 being the largest payment possible.8

Shakopee Public Utilities promotes installation of energy­efficient equipment through the

Commercial and Industrial Energy­Efficient Cooling rebate program. Rebates are available to

the utility’s commercial customers. Under this program, commercial and industrial businesses

with PTACs can receive a base payment of $7.50 per ton for units rated at 9.20 EER and $1.25

per ton for every incremental increase of 0.1 EER above base requirements.9

k For more information, please visit www.energystar.gov.

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CPS Energy, the Nation’s largest municipally owned energy company, promotes the use

of energy­efficient PTACs and PTHPs through the 2007 CPS Energy Rebate Program. Rebates

vary by equipment type (i.e., standard size PTAC and PTHP and non­standard size PTAC and

PTHP). The payment amounts are separated by three tiers or steps of EER. CPS Energy

encourages replacement of older, less efficient systems by offering additional rebates for

replacement systems.10

PG&E offers rebates to business customers for standard and non­standard size PTAC and

PTHP projects through its Energy Efficiency Rebate program. The program provides a fixed

$100 rebate for PTACs and PTHPs that have a cooling capacity less than or equal to 7,000 Btu/h

and a certified EER greater than 11.29. The fixed rebate amount is also valid for PTACs and

PTHPs that have a cooling capacity between 7,000 Btu/h and 24,000 Btu/h and a certified EER

greater than 10.27.11

SCE offers rebates to business customers for standard and non­standard size PTAC and

PTHP projects through its Multifamily Energy Efficiency Rebate Program. The program

provides a fixed $100 rebate for PTACs and PTHPs that have EERs at least 20 percent above

California’s appliance efficiency regulations, also known as Title 20. The rebate is valid for all

units with cooling capacity below 24,000 Btu/h.12 Under the California Code of Regulations,

Title 20, Section 1605.1 b(2), PTACs and PTHPs energy conservation standards are identical to

the current Federal PTAC and PTHP energy conservation standards.

3.2.5 Shipments

Information about annual equipment shipment trends allows DOE to estimate the impacts

of energy conservation standards on the PTAC and PTHP industry. Using publicly available

data from the U.S. Census Bureau and AHRI estimates, DOE examined unit shipments and value

of shipments for PTACs and PTHPs.

In the March 2, 2006 TSD issued with the notice of availability (NOA) 71 FR 12634,

DOE estimated that 85 percent of the shipments for PTACs and PTHPs are standard size units,

while 15 percent are non­standard size units.13 The shipment estimates were based on averages

of 1999­2001 shipments from AHRI and the U.S. Census Bureau. Using currently available

data, AHRI has also estimated that 85 percent of the shipments for PTACs and PTHPs are

standard size units, while 15 percent are non­standard size units. Both current shipment data

from AHRI and U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Industry Reports (CIR) are presented in section

3.2.5.1. More information about shipments for PTACs and PTHPs can be found in the

shipments analysis section (Chapter 9) of the TSD.

3.2.5.1 Unit Shipments

The U.S. Census Bureau publishes an annual CIR, which provides annual unit shipments

and value of shipments for various industries including the PTAC and PTHP industry. The CIR

however, does not separate the shipments by standard size and non­standard size units. Table

3.2.9 presents the annual shipments of the PTAC and PTHP industry for the 10­year period from

1997 to 2006 taken from the annual CIR.14 The statistics show that shipment numbers fluctuate

over the 10­year period and do not present a constant increasing or decreasing trend with time.

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Table 3.2.9 2006 CIR PTAC and PTHP Industry Shipments (Domestic and Import in

Thousands of Units)

Year PTAC

(units)

PTHP

(units)

Total

(units)

2006 226,498 184,584 411,082

2005 198,116 164,428 362,544

2004 112,536 146,874 259,410

2003 108,199 86,911 195,110

2002 112,960 (D) ­

2001 108,492 (D) ­

2000 115,615 97,718 213,333

1999 191,564 155,774 347,338

1998 185,745 156,132 341,877

1997 168,084 130,736 298,820

(D) Withheld to avoid disclosing data for individual companies

Table 3.2.10 presents the annual shipments estimated by AHRI of the PTAC and PTHP

industry from 1997 to 2005. Both the AHRI and CIR data, show the same decrease in shipments

between 1999 and 2002 for both PTACs and PTHPs.

Table 3.2.10 2006 AHRI Total PTAC and PTHP Industry Estimated Shipment Data

(Standard and Non­Standard)

Year Total

(Thousands of Units)

2005 484

2004 446

2003 399

2002 389

2001 388

2000 402

1999 453

1998 471

1997 434

3.2.5.2 Value of Shipments

Table 3.2.11 provides the value of shipments for the PTAC and PTHP industry from

2000 to 2006 using the U.S. Census Bureau ASM and CIR.15 The ASM and CIR express all

dollar values in current dollars (i.e., 2003 data are expressed in 2003 dollars, etc.). Using the

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Implicit Price Deflator, DOE converted each year’s value of

shipments to 2007 dollars, with 2006 being the last year included in the ASM data set.

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Table 3.2.11 PTAC and PTHP Manufacturing Statistics by Year15

Year

Value of Shipments

($1000)

Value of Shipments in 2007$

($1000)

PTAC PTHP Total PTAC PTHP Total

2006 126,621 88,773 215,394 129,632 90,884 220,516

2005 117,143 84,063 201,206 123,720 88,782 212,502

2004 101,067 66,819 167,886 111,052 73,420 184,472

2003 69,911 46,564 116,475 78,712 52,426 131,137

2002 70,222 (D) ­ 80,507 ­ ­

2001 69,784 (D) ­ 81,326 ­ ­

2000 67,322 50,582 117,904 80,341 60,364 140,705

(D) Withheld to avoid disclosing data for individual companies

According to the statistics, PTAC and PTHP have had a relatively constant value of

shipments between 2000 and 2003. There was a sharp increase in shipment value in 2004, which

could be a result of the sharp increase in metal prices that occurred in the same period.

3.2.6 Industry Cost Structure

DOE developed the PTAC and PTHP industry cost structures from publicly available

information from the ASM and the SEC 10­K reports filed by publicly owned manufacturers.

Table 3.2.12 presents the commercial air conditioning and warm air heating equipment

manufacturing employment levels and earnings from 1997 to 2006.

Table 3.2.12 Commercial Air Conditioning and Warm Air Heating Equipment Industry

Employment and Earnings 15

Year Production Workers All Employees Payroll for All Employees

(thousands of dollars)

2006 74,932 98,128 4,021,052

2005 76,011 102,354 3,942,808

2004 73,106 99,035 3,691,029

2003 77,488 104,668 3,776,417

2002 80,417 108,274 3,815,747

2001 88,978 118,876 3,950,483

2000 97,978 127,384 4,267,872

1999 95,904 123,962 4,043,064

1998 91,994 120,011 3,844,667

1997 90,968 119,386 3,678,996

The statistics illustrate a steady decline in the number of production and non­production

workers in the industry. This decline may be a result of industry consolidation, increased

automation in production, or a growing trend of moving manufacturing facilities outside of the

United States to reduce labor costs.

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The assumption of increased off­shore manufacturing may be bolstered by the

consistency of the industry payroll statistics. The ASM expresses all dollar values in current

dollars. Table 3.2.12 shows that as industry employment levels decline, the industry payroll also

decreases. In fact, when all payroll amounts are converted to 2006 real dollars, the percent

decrease in total industry employees tracks closely with the percent decrease in payroll for all

employees.

Table 3.2.13 presents the costs of materials and industry payroll as a percentage of value

of shipments from 1997 to 2006.

Table 3.2.13 Commercial Air­Conditioning and Warm Air­Heating Equipment Industry

Census Data 16

Year

Materials Cost as a

Percent of Value of

Shipments

Payroll for Production

Workers as a Percent

of Value of Shipments

Total Payroll

(production +

admin.) as a Percent

of Value of

Shipments

2006 53.2% 8.87% 13.8%

2005 53.7% 8.45% 13.7%

2004 51.1% 8.80% 14.2%

2003 50.6% 9.53% 15.4%

2002 49.4% 9.83% 15.9%

2001 52.6% 9.83% 15.8%

2000 53.0% 10.1% 16.0%

1999 53.4% 9.80% 15.4%

1998 54.9% 9.90% 15.4%

1997 54.2% 10.1% 16.0%

The cost of materials as a percentage of value of shipments has fluctuated slightly over

the 9­year period. This trend is not surprising as fluctuations in raw material costs are common

from year to year. The cost of payroll for production workers as a percentage of value of

shipments has followed a declining pattern since 1998, pointing to the possibility of increasing

production automation in the PTAC and PTHP industry. Finally, the cost of total payroll as a

percentage of value of shipments has also followed a declining pattern since 1998, illustrating a

reduction in industry non­production or administrative employees, possibly the product of

selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) cost­cutting measures.

Table 3.2.14 presents an example of the typical cost structure that was derived from a

number of SEC 10­K reports of a publicly owned PTAC and PTHP manufacturer.17 Each

financial statement entry is presented as a percentage of total revenues.

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Table 3.2.14 Industry Cost Structure Using SEC Data
 

Financial Statement Entry Percent of Revenues

Cost of Sales 79.4%

Material 51.9%

Labor 9.0%

Overhead 17.5%

Net income 1.6%

Selling, General and Administrative 10.9%

Research and Development 1.0%

Depreciation and Amortization 2.4%

Profit Before Financing* 9.7%

* Profit before Financing equal to (Sales) ­ (SG&A + Cost of Product)

Chapter 13 of this TSD presents the manufacturer impact analysis (MIA), a detailed

financial analysis of the two equipment types covered by this rulemaking. This analysis

identified key financial inputs including cost of capital, working capital, depreciation, capital

expenditures, etc.

3.2.7 Equipment Lifetime

DOE reviewed available literature and consulted with manufacturers in order to establish

typical equipment lifetimes. The literature and experts consulted offered a wide range of typical

equipment lifetimes. Individuals with previous experience in manufacturing or distribution of

PTACs and PTHPs suggested a typical lifetime of 5 to 10 years. Some experts suggested that the

lifetime could be even lower because of the daily or continuous use of the equipment and neglect

of maintenance such as cleaning the heat exchangers or replacing the air filters. In addition, the

equipment is typically replaced about every 5 years for cosmetic reasons during remodeling in

lodging applications. The 2000 Screening Analysis for EPACT­Covered Commercial Heating,

Ventilating and Air­Conditioning and Water­Heating Equipment report (commonly referred to as

the 2000 Screening Analysis) based a 15­year lifetime for PTACs and PTHPs based on data from

ASHRAE’s 1995 Handbook of HVAC Applications.

18 For this PTAC and PTHP rulemaking,

DOE assumed the equipment lifetime for PTACs and PTHPs to be 10 years based on the review

of available literature and manufacturer information. More information about PTAC and PTHP

equipment lifetime is available in the life­cycle cost and payback period analyses section

(Chapter 8) of this TSD.

3.2.8 Market Performance Data

DOE combined information from the 2008 AHRI Applied Directory of Certified Product

Performance (2008 AHRI directory) with other publicly available data from manufacturer

catalogs of PTACs and PTHPs to develop an understanding of the industry.19 The database

contains information such as manufacturer name, model number, cooling capacity, EER, COP,

heating capacity where applicable, and wall sleeve dimensions. To maintain consistency in the

analysis, DOE divided the data into standard and non­standard size classifications in the database

based on DOE’s developed equipment classes for this rulemaking. Figure 3.2.1 and Figure 3.2.2

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
                           

   

                            

           

Number of Certified Models

show the distribution of standard size PTACs and PTHPs respectively in the 2008 AHRI

directory.

30

35

25

20

15

10

5

0

6,6007,0007,4007,8008,2008,6009,0009,4009,800

10,20010,60011,00011,40011,80012,20012,60013,00013,40013,80014,20014,60015,00015,40015,800

Cooling Capacity (Btu/hr)

Figure 3.2.1 Number of Certified Standard Size PTAC Models by Cooling Capacity – June

2008 AHRI Directory and Manufacturer Catalogs

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
   

                            

           

                       

                              

                               

                              

                             

                         

         

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

20

Number of Certified Numbers

6,8007,2007,6008,0008,4008,8009,2009,600

10,00010,40010,80011,20011,60012,00012,40012,80013,20013,60014,00014,40014,750

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.2 Number of Certified Standard Size PTHP Models by Cooling Capacity – June

2008 AHRI Directory and Manufacturer Catalogs

According to the June 2008 AHRI directory and manufacturers’ catalogs, standard size

PTACs are available in several groups of cooling capacities. These range from 6,800 Btu/h to

7,600 Btu/h; 8,300 Btu/h to 9,800 Btu/h; 11,000 Btu/h to 12,200 Btu/h; and 12,800 Btu/h to

15,100 Btu/h. Standard size PTHPs are similar, ranging from 6,800 Btu/h to 7,400 Btu/h; 8,300

Btu/h to 9,300 Btu/h; 10,800 Btu/h to 12,000 Btu/h; and 13,500 Btu/h to 14,800 Btu/h.

Figure 3.2.3 and Figure 3.2.4 show the distribution of non­standard size PTACs and

PTHPs respectively from manufacturer catalogs.

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
   

                    

Number of Models

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

6,8007,4008,0008,6009,2009,800

10,40011,00011,60012,20012,80013,40014,00014,60015,20015,80016,40017,00017,60018,20018,80019,40020,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.3 Non­Standard Size PTAC Models by Cooling Capacity – Manufacturer

Catalogs

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
   

                      

       

                     

                              

                               

                       

                            

                           

                        

        Number of Models

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

6,8007,2007,6008,0008,4008,8009,2009,600

10,00010,40010,80011,20011,60012,00012,40012,80013,20013,60014,00014,40014,80015,20015,60016,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.4 Non­Standard Size PTHP Models by Cooling Capacity for Equipment
 

Utilizing R­22 Refrigerant –Manufacturer Catalogs
 

According to manufacturer catalogs, the non­standard size PTACs and PTHPs are

available for several groups of cooling capacity. These range from 7,300 Btu/h to 7,500 Btu/h;

9,200 Btu/h to 9,500 Btu/h; 10,900 Btu/h to 12,200 Btu/h; and 14,700 Btu/h to 15,500 Btu/h.

Using the database, DOE examined the relationship between EER and cooling capacity

for PTACs and PTHPs of both standard and non­standard size categories. Figure 3.2.5 and

Figure 3.2.6 show the relationship between EER and cooling capacity for standard size PTACs

and PTHPs respectively. These figures also identify the EPCA and ASHRAE Standard 90.1­

1999 efficiency levels.

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
   

   

                        

           

                           

                              

                           

       

7

7.5

8

8.5

9

9.5

10

10.5

11

11.5

12

12.5

13

EER

ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1­1999

Efficiency Levels

EPCA Efficiency Levels

6,000 8,000 10,000 12,000 14,000 16,000 18,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.5 Standard Size PTAC EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing

R­22 Refrigerant – 2008 AHRI Directory

As shown in Figure 3.2.5, generally the EER of standard size PTACs generally decreases

as cooling capacity increases. All of the certified standard size PTAC units are above Federal

minimum efficiency levels, while close to 88 percent are at or above ASHRAE Standard 90.1­

1999 efficiency levels.

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
   

   

                        

           

                           

                            

                            

                          

             

                       

                          

             

7.0

7.5

8.0

8.5

9.0

9.5

10.0

10.5

11.0

11.5

12.0

12.5

13.0

13.5

EER

ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1­1999

Efficiency Levels

EPCA Efficiency Levels

6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 13,000 14,000 15,000 16,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.6 Standard Size PTHP EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing

R­22 Refrigerant – 2008 AHRI Directory

As with PTACs, Figure 3.2.6 shows the EER of standard size PTHPs decreases as

cooling capacity increases. All of the certified standard size PTHP units are above Federal

minimum efficiency levels, while close to 92 percent are at or above ASHRAE 90.1­1999

efficiency levels. Like the comparison between certified models and cooling capacity, this data

also shows prominent groupings of cooling capacity.

Figure 3.2.7 and Figure 3.2.8 demonstrate the relationship between EER and cooling

capacity for non­standard size PTACs and PTHPs respectively. These figures also show the

EPCA and ASHRAE Standard 90.1­1999 efficiency levels.

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
   

   

                      

       

   

                      

           

EER

13.0

ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1­1999

12.5 Efficiency Levels

EPCA Efficiency Levels

12.0

11.5

11.0

10.5

10.0

9.5

9.0

8.5

8.0

7.5

7.0

6,000 8,000 10,000 12,000 14,000 16,000 18,000 20,000 22,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.7 Non­Standard Size PTAC EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment
 

Utilizing R­22 Refrigerant –Manufacturers’ Catalogs
 

12.0

ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1­1999

Efficiency Levels 11.5 EPCA Efficiency Levels

11.0

10.5

10.0

EER

9.5

9.0

8.5

8.0

7.5

7.0

6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 13,000 14,000 15,000 16,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.8 Non­Standard Size PTHP EER versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment
 

Utilizing R­22 Refrigerant – Manufacturers’ Catalogs
 

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
                           

                            

                              

                           

                            

         

                         

                          

                     

   

   

                        

           

Similar to standard size PTACs, the EER of a non­standard size PTAC decreases as

cooling capacity increases. The data shows a similar availability of capacity ranges as observed

with standard size PTACs. All of the reviewed non­standard size PTAC units are above Federal

minimum efficiency levels, while close to 95 percent are at or above ASHRAE 90.1­1999

efficiency levels. All of the reviewed non­standard size PTHP units are above Federal minimum

and ASHRAE 90.1­1999 efficiency levels.

DOE also examined the relationship between COP and cooling capacity for standard and

non­standard size PTHPs, shown in Figure 3.2.9 and Figure 3.2.10, respectively. These figures

also show the EPCA and ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1­1999 efficiency levels.

4.0

ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1­1999

Efficiency Levels

EPCA Efficiency Levels

3.5

3.0

2.5

2.0

COP

6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 13,000 14,000 15,000 16,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.9 Standard Size PTHP COP versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment Utilizing
 

R­22 Refrigerant – 2008 AHRI Directory
 

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2.0

2.5

3.0

3.5

4.0

COP

ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1­1999

Efficiency Levels

EPCA Efficiency Levels

6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 13,000 14,000 15,000 16,000

Cooling Capacity (Btu/h)

Figure 3.2.10 Non­Standard Size PTHP COP versus Cooling Capacity for Equipment
 

Utilizing R­22 Refrigerant – Manufacturers’ Catalogs
 

As with EER, COP tends to decrease with cooling capacity. Within groupings of

capacity, there is also a wide variation of COP. The standard size PTHP data, as shown in

Figure 3.2.9, show more pronounced groupings while the non­standard size PTHPs, as shown in

Figure 3.2.10, are slightly scattered. According to the AHRI database, the standard size PTHP

market has a significantly higher number of models compared to the non­standard size PTHP

market, which helps explain the scattered pattern in the non­standard size PTHPs. In addition,

the COP for non­standard size models begins at a much higher level but does not exceed

standard size PTHP COP levels. COP levels for all of the reviewed standard size PTHP units are

above Federal efficiency levels while close to 98 percent are at or above ASHRAE 90.1­1999

efficiency levels (shown in Figure 3.2.9). COP levels for all of the reviewed non­standard size

PTHP units are above Federal minimum and ASHRAE 90.1­1999 efficiency levels (shown in

Figure 3.2.10).

3.3 TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT

The purpose of the technology assessment is to develop a preliminary list of technology

options manufacturers can use to improve the efficiency of PTACs and PTHPs. The following

assessment provides descriptions of those technology options that apply to all equipment classes.

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In preparation for the screening and engineering analyses (Chapter 4 of the TSD), DOE

identified several possible technology options and examined the most common efficiency

improvements used today. These identified technologies will provide a deeper understanding of

the technological improvements used to increase the energy conservation of PTACs and PTHPs.

3.3.1 Baseline Equipment Components and Operation

The baseline PTAC is an air conditioner that incorporates a complete air­cooled

refrigeration and air­handling system in an individual package. Each PTAC has a self­contained,

direct­expansion (DX) cooling system and packaged control including electromechanical

function switches. Models may feature various heating options (electric, hot water, or steam).

The basic PTAC DX cooling system is composed of a compressor (typically a rotary

compressor), an evaporator, and a condenser. Other components of the PTAC include a fan and

fan motor, a thermostat, outer casing, and a wall sleeve. Manufacturers typically differentiate

high­efficiency models from basic models by installing any combination of a higher efficiency

compressor, digital controls with energy savings settings, automatically controlled fan speed and

cycle, a higher efficiency fan motor, more than one fan, and a more efficient heat exchanger.

The baseline PTHP is similar in design to the baseline PTAC. Baseline PTHPs are

differentiated mainly by the addition of a reversing valve that changes the direction of the

refrigerant flow so that the refrigeration and air­handling system can be used both as an air

conditioner and a heat pump. PTHP models use the reverse cycle refrigeration as its primary

heat source, and may feature various supplementary heating options (electric, hot water, or

steam).

3.3.2 Technology Options

DOE identified the following technology options that could potentially improve the

efficiency of PTACs and PTHPs: scroll compressors; variable­speed compressors; higher

efficiency compressors; complex control boards; higher efficiency fan motors; microchannel heat

exchangers; increased heat exchanger area; material treatment of heat exchanger; recircuiting

heat exchanger coils; improved air flow and fan design; heat pipes; and corrosion protection.

3.3.2.1 Scroll Compressors

Different types of compressor designs that can be applied to HVAC and other

commercial equipment including rotary, scroll, and variable­speed compressors. Rotary

compressors are the most widely used compressor type in the PTAC and PTHP industry due to

their small size and efficiency. Rotary compressors use the rotating action of a roller inside a

cylinder to compress the refrigerant. The high efficiency of the rotary compressor can be

attributed to its ability to simultaneously take in refrigerant at one section of the cylinder and

compress refrigerant at another section.

Scroll compressors are an alternative to rotary compressors in air­conditioning

applications. Scroll compressors are high efficiency, quiet, relatively small, and mainly used in

automotive applications and residential air conditioning units. Scroll compressors compress gas

in a fundamentally different manner from traditional compressors—between two spirals, one

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fixed and one rotating. Although scroll compressors are typically more efficient than rotary

compressors, they carry a higher price and increase in weight and dimensions compared with a

similar capacity rotary compressor.

3.3.2.2 Variable­Speed Compressors

Another alternative to a standard rotary compressor is the variable­speed compressor.

Variable­speed operation is implemented through an electronic control on the compressor motor,

which allows the motor to operate at different speeds and vary the capacity of the compressor.

Variable­speed compressors reduce energy consumption by matching the compressor capacity to

the load as operating conditions vary. The benefits of a variable­speed compressor cannot be

captured by the EER testing procedure, however, because the ARI 310/380­2004 test procedure

calls for steady state conditions (i.e., no variability in inputs) the speed of the compressor must

remain constant.

3.3.2.3 Higher Efficiency Compressors

Improving the compressor efficiency can decrease the energy consumption of the PTAC

and PTHP. Certain manufacturers incorporate high efficiency rotary compressors into their

units. While more efficient rotary compressor designs are an ongoing industry challenge, there

have been substantial gains in compressor efficiency, which translates into substantial energy

savings by PTACs and PTHPs.

3.3.2.4 Complex Control Boards

Several types of control board additions help manage operation and decrease annual

energy consumption of PTAC and PTHP equipment. Control board additions include fan motor

controllers, digital “energy management” control interfaces, and heat pump controllers.

Fan motor controllers integrated with the control board allow fan motors to run at

variable speed to match changing conditions in the room or space. Matching the fan speed to

ambient humidity and temperature levels improves heat exchanger coil performance and allows

the refrigeration system to run more efficiently.

Baseline PTACs and PTHPs have electromechanical function/temperature rotary

switches that require manual operation. They allow consumers to set on/off operation, preset

temperatures, select fan speed (i.e., high or low), and select heating or cooling function.

Optional digital energy management control interfaces allow the unit to be digitally controlled

from a remote location or central energy management system. An operations manager or energy

management system can turn off or digitally set the temperature of the PTAC or PTHP units not

in use to conserve energy. This control strategy is commonly found in hotels and motels.

Heat pump controllers integrated with the PTHP control board, which supplement heating

via electric resistance, allow the heat pump cycle to run at variable indoor and outdoor

conditions. The system monitors both indoor and outdoor temperatures to determine the heat

source. As outdoor temperatures drop below the point at which the PTHPs can keep up with the

heat loss of the conditioned space, the heat pump controllers activate supplemental electric

resistance heater. The heat pump controllers thus allow optimum use of the heat pump cycle and

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
                               

   

        

                       

                                

                              

                               

                              

                            

                               

                     

                           

                                

                          

                            

                           

             

                   

                       

                          

                              

                                

                       

      

                         

                     

                     

                               

                             

                     

                               

                    

                              

                       

                        

                           

       

                     

                          

minimize the use of electric resistance to improve efficiency as well as to meet the space

comfort.

3.3.2.5 Higher Efficiency Fan Motors

Evaporator and condenser fan motors are responsible for moving air across the

evaporator and condenser coils and typically run at one speed. The most common type of fan

motor PTACs and PTHPs use is the permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor. Unlike less efficient

shaded­pole motors, PSCs use a capacitor that cuts off current to the start­up winding as the

motor reaches running speed or steady state. PSC motors have efficiencies that range from 50

percent to 70 percent and are lightweight, fairly inexpensive, and simple to manufacture. The

manufacturer will match the motor size and fan blade to the evaporator or condenser coils to

meet the expected load on the system under most conditions.

Sizes of PSC fan motors typically used in PTACs and PTHPs range between 1/12

horsepower (hp) for smaller equipment to 1/4 hp for larger equipment. The PSC fan motors in

the PTAC and PTHP equipment also circulate supply air throughout the commercial building.

Increasing the fan motor efficiency increase the overall efficiency of the system. More efficient

fan motors reduce energy consumption by requiring less electrical power to generate the same

amount of motor shaft output power than less­efficient counterparts.

Another type of electric motor, the electronically­commutated permanent magnet (ECM)

motor (also known as the brushless permanent magnet (BPM) motor), is more energy­efficient

than either shaded­pole or PSC motors. ECM motors are three­phase electric motors with

efficiencies ranging from 70 percent to 80 percent. However, ECM motors can weigh twice as

much as equivalent PSC motors. In addition, ECM motors are complex, and can cost from two

and a half to five times as much as a PSC motor.

3.3.2.6 Microchannel Heat Exchangers

Unlike a conventional coil tube with an attached plate fin, microchannel heat exchangers

have a rectangular aluminum cross­section containing several small channels through which

refrigerant passes. Aluminum fins are brazed between the rectangular tubes. Microchannel

designs provide more heat transfer per unit of face area than a conventional coil design, while

creating a lower pressure drop than a similarly performing conventional coil. The small size and

lower air­side pressure drop that results from microchannel heat exchangers provide

opportunities to reduce the size and weight of the heat exchanger, which is why they are

frequently used in automobile air­conditioning systems. However, the microchannel heat

exchanger has yet to penetrate the PTAC and PTHP market due to performance issues. In

particular, the microchannel construction hinders condensate removal, which makes it difficult to

implement for evaporator coils. However, this limitation would not prevent microchannel heat

exchangers from being used for the condenser coils of PTACs, which require no condensate

removal.

3.3.2.7 Increase Heat Exchanger Area

All evaporator and condenser coils that DOE reviewed are refrigerant­to­air heat

exchangers composed of aluminum metal fins and copper tubing. The evaporator is responsible

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for evaporating and superheating the entering refrigerant liquid­vapor mixture while extracting

heat from the air passing over the heat exchanger. The condenser is responsible for condensing

and sub­cooling the entering refrigerant vapor while rejecting heat from the refrigerant to the air

passing over it. Manufacturers increase the efficiency of heat exchangers by increasing the heat

exchanger coil area, using alternative materials, and changing tube circuit configuration.

Increasing the surface area of the evaporator coil increases its heat­transfer effectiveness

and thus the overall efficiency of the air­conditioning system. Increasing the evaporator coil area

increases the average temperature of refrigerant in the coil and reduces the temperature

difference between the refrigerant and the supply indoor air. However, the “warmer” coil also

reduces the latent heat removal capability of the evaporator coil.

Increasing the heat­exchange area for the condenser coil provides a better opportunity for

the hot refrigerant vapor gases leaving the compressor to cool down. Cooler refrigerant entering

the expansion device increases the specific refrigeration capacity of the refrigerant and the

efficiency of the entire system. In general, increasing the condenser coil face area provides for

higher system efficiency at the expense of more materials and often greater total system size.

Enhancements to the heat exchanger coil area typically include increasing fin pitch (i.e.,

decreasing the space between fins), improving fin pattern or geometry, and increasing the

number of tube passes. Increasing the overall size of the coil in one or more dimensions without

changing other aspects of the coil is another way to increase the overall coil area and thus overall

coil volume. However, because external dimensions of PTACs and PTHPs are fixed,

manufacturers are limited in how much volume or face area they can add to coils while reserving

enough room for other needed components, air plenums, etc. Further considerations include

maintainability, as very tight fin pitches can result in coils more readily plugging with dust and

dirt.

3.3.2.8 Material Treatment of Heat Exchanger

Using alternative metals in the heat exchanger construction can improve repelling

condensed water on the evaporator coil, ultimately improving equipment efficiency. One

example is a patented technology known in the industry as a plasma­treated heat exchanger. The

improved water repelling property of the metal allows the heat exchanger to be significantly

smaller while delivering the same heat transfer capability as other conventional heat exchangers.

DOE recognizes that this is a patented technology used by one manufacturer to improve the

efficiency of their heat exchangers.

3.3.2.9 Recircuiting Heat Exchanger Coils

Manufacturers can also modify the tube circuit configuration of their heat exchangers to

include multiple and/or sub­cooling loops, which enhances efficiency and system capacity. Cold

condensate that drips from the heat exchanger is collected and used to sub­cool the refrigerant

exiting the condenser coil. In another type of sub­cooling loop, the refrigerant exiting the

condenser can be circulated through additional loops located in the condensate base pan. Subcooling the refrigerant exiting the condenser decreases the work done by the compressor and

increases overall efficiency.

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 EERE-2007-BT-STD-0012 COMMENT 32
           

                       

                              

             

                       

                        

                          

                              

                               

              

                           

                                

                            

                                   

                               

                                    

                                   

                             

                             

                        

                 

                                     

                            

                                

                               

                                

                                     

                          

                      

   

                           

                            

                            

                               

                             

                                  

                                 

                                

3.3.2.10 Improved Air Flow and Fan Design

Reducing airflow leakage and improving airflow efficiency are two ways to improve

energy efficiency in a PTAC and PTHP. PTAC and PTHP manufacturers use insulation and heat

transfer­resistant case design to minimize leakage pathways.

Insulation reduces heat transfer between the condenser and evaporator sections and may

reduce infiltration and exfiltration when sealants are carefully applied. Rubber padding and

extruded polystyrene are commonly used as insulation. Case design also reduces heat transfer

since some case materials are more resistant to heat transfer than others. By reducing undesired

heat transfer and air leakage, insulation and sealants reduce the net work and thus the overall

energy consumption of a PTAC and PTHP unit.

Manufacturers can affect fan performance by changing the fan diameter, shape of the fan

blade, or fan axis (i.e., using cross flow fans). Cross flow (tangential) fans move air moderately

more efficiently by generating a more uniform airflow over the heat exchanger. However, the

extra volume such a fan requires may simply not be available inside the confines of a PTAC or

PTHP.

A very popular fan blade design for the outdoor section is the “slinger” fan blade, which

has a propeller shape and a ring that connects all the blade tips to each other. As condensate

flowing from the indoor coil fills the pan that the PTAC or PTHP condenser coil sits in, the

slinger blade picks up some of that condensate and mists the outdoor coil, improving the

efficiency of the unit while running in space­cooling mode, due to the decrease in temperature

from water evaporation. A temperature­operated drain valve then ensures that the condensate

pan drains whenever outdoor temperatures drop from summer­like conditions.

The decision to run one or two fans inside a PTAC or PTHP depends in part on the target

market. A single­fan­motor PTAC or PTHP will be optimized to perform well under design

conditions and for testing. A dual­fan PTAC or PTHP gives the OEM greater freedom in fan

blade choices (as fan motor speeds can be tailored to suit a particular fan blade); multiple­fan

units can also address variable conditions better. For example, when a PTHP is used for space

heating conditions, it will only run the indoor fan when it is too cold for the heat pump to

operate. Similarly, a PTAC fitted with an optional hydronic heat exchanger consumes less

energy when only one fan blade operates during the winter.

3.3.2.11 Heat Pipes

PTAC and PTHP manufacturers can use heat pipes when designing the heat exchanger to

decrease energy consumption. A heat pipe is a refrigerant­filled sealed coil, separate from the

refrigerant cycle that loops around the evaporator heat exchanger coils. The heat pipe transfers

heat from the front to the rear section of the evaporator heat exchanger coils without consuming

energy.

Heat pipes are used to enhance moisture control in the conditioned space by reducing the

sensible heat ratio of the evaporator coil. As the humid warm air from the indoor space is

exposed to the front section of the heat pipe (i.e., front surface area of the evaporator heat

exchanger), the entering air is pre­cooled by the refrigerant in the heat pipe. The refrigerant in

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the heat pipe then changes from a liquid to a gas and flows to the rear section of the heat pipe

(i.e., rear surface area of the evaporator heat exchanger). Because the heat pipe extracted the

some sensible heat from the entering air, the air becomes cooler and with a higher relative

humidity level than the air without the pre­cooling. The higher relative humidity level of the

pre­treated air further enhances the ability of the evaporator heat exchanger coil to extract heat

and moisture from the air. Once the air is further cooled by the evaporator heat exchanger, it is

exposed to the rear section of the heat pipe. The heat removed by the front section of the heat

pipe is thus transferred back to the air leaving the coil. Consequently, the final expelled air is

much drier than the leaving air without heat pipe application. The pre­treat of entering air by a

heat pipe enhances the evaporator heat exchanger performance of cooling and dehumidification,

which translates to less energy consumption by the unit

3.3.2.12 Corrosion Protection

Different weather conditions can significantly affect the performance of PTACs and

PTHPs. High humidity, salt deposits (for equipment near coastal regions), and other severe

weather conditions can corrode the components and wall sleeve. Corrosion of coils and other

heat exchanger components can decrease performance by reducing the heat exchangers’ ability

to transfer heat. Corrosion of the wall sleeve decreases its insulation properties, which can

decrease overall performance.

Currently manufacturers apply different material coatings to the components and wall

sleeve, and design changes that increase their weather resistance. Material coating such as

polyester powder coat paint provides resistance from water, salt, and possible scratches. Design

changes include implementation of galvanized fasteners and the use of stainless steel instead of

copper for the manufacturing of outdoor coils. Some manufacturers have opted to use polymers

instead of steel for manufacturing wall sleeves, which improves both insulation (i.e., improves

system performance by decreasing heat loss), and sound absorption. All these technologies

applied by manufacturers can increase energy conservation by maintaining optimum

performance of the different components.

3.3.2.13 Clutched Motor Fans

The automotive industry uses clutched fans to engage and disengage a vehicle’s cooling

fan from the belt driven by the engine. Using a clutched fan or a set of clutched fans allows

designs to incorporate a single motor and only operate fans when needed (i.e., the condenser or

evaporator blowers). In theory, these devices would also work with PTACs and PTHPs to

reduce the load on a single fan motor used to drive both the evaporator and the condenser fan

blades when the refrigerating system is not operating by disengaging the condenser fan. In this

way, power input could be reduced during times when only the indoor blower is running to

recirculate air, or when electric resistance heating is being provided.

3.3.2.14 Thermal Expansion Valves

Thermal expansion valves (TXVs) are expansion devices that meter the flow of

refrigerant from the condenser to the evaporator at a rate equivalent to the amount of refrigerant

being boiled off in the evaporator. For example, when the evaporator is exposed to high

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temperatures, the TXV will open to allow faster flow of refrigerant to match the higher boiling

rate caused by higher temperatures. Alternatively, for lower temperatures, the TXV will reduce

the flow rate to match the lower boiling rate caused by cooler temperatures. TXVs can improve

energy efficiency by optimizing the amount of heat transfer that occurs across the evaporator.

Typically, TXVs are installed in central air conditioning applications where equipment is rated

with the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) metric and testing occurs at various operating

conditions and temperatures.

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REFERENCES

1	 Air­Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. About AHRI. 2008. (Last

accessed June 5, 2008.) http://www.ahrinet.org/Content/AboutARI_373.aspx

2	 30th Annual Portrait of the U.S. Appliance Industry: The Share­of­Market Picture for

2006. Appliance Magazine, Vol.64, No. 9, September 2007.

3	 U.S. Small Business Administration. Small Business Size Standards matched to North

American Industry Classification System. February 2002.

http://www.sba.gov/gopher/Financial­Assistance/Size­Standards/sizetablestandards.txt.

(Last accessed 8/3/07)

4	 Nadel, Steven. Form for Submittal of Proposed Change to ASHRAE Standard 90.1­2004

Under Continuous Maintenance. American Council for an Energy­Efficient Economy

(ACEEE). September 23, 2005. Washington, D.C.

5	 Canada Natural Resources­Office of Energy Efficiency. Packaged Terminal Air

Conditioners and Heat Pumps – Proposed Amendment to the EE Regulations. November

17, 2006.

http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/regulations/html/EERGuide_Part2_3.cfm?text=N&printview=N#h.

(Las accessed 8/3/07)

6	 Platte River Power Authority. Cooling Rebate Program Overview. 2007.

http://www.prpa.org/productservices/crppoverview.htm. (Last accessed 8/3/07)

7	 Xcel Energy. Cooling Efficiency Rebate Application for PTAC, Water­Source Heat

Pumps, Hotel­Room Controllers. 2005.

http://www.xcelenergy.com/XLWEB/CDA/0,3080,1­1­3_19900_8402­6823­5_538_969­

0,00.html. (Last accessed 01/28/2007)

8	 Modesto Irrigation District. Commercial Power Saver Rebate Program: Qualification

Standards (January 1, 2007 – December 14, 2007). January 3, 2007.

http://www.mid.org/services/rebates/pkts/rbts­com­pkt­2007.pdf. (Last accessed 8/3/07)

9	 Shakopee Public Utilities. Commercial & Industrial Energy Efficient Cooling. 2007.

http://www.shakopeeutilities.com/SPUC%20Cooling%20Claim%20Form.pdf. (Last

accessed 8/10/07)

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10	 CPS Energy. 2007 Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program. January 1, 2007.

http://www.cpsenergy.com/files/get_rebate_information/2007_CI_AC_Matrix.xls. (Last

accessed 8/10/07)

11	 Pacific Gas & Electric Company. Energy Efficiency Rebates for Homes, Businesses and

Multifamily Dwellings. January 2007. (Last accessed January 29, 2007)

http://www.pge.com/docs/pdfs/application/07HVAC.pdf. (Last accessed 8/10/07)

12	 Southern California Edision. Multifamily Energy Efficiency Rebate Program. January 1,

2006. http://www.sce.com/NR/rdonlyres/7A9B0470­1F18­4A7D­AA93­

7B306253A77C/0/06SCEMultiFamilyApplication.pdf. (Last accessed 8/10/07)

13	 U.S. Department of Energy­Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Energy

Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Technical Support Document (TSD):

Energy Efficiency Program for Commercial And Industrial Equipment: Efficiency

Standards for Commercial Heating, Air Conditioning, and Water Heating Equipment

Analysis. April 2000. Washington, D.C.

http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/commercial/pdfs/ashrae_prod

ucts/ashrae_products_draft_tsd_030206.pdf. (Last accessed 8/10/07)

14	 “Table 2 – Quantity and Value of Shipments of Refrigeration, Air­Conditioning, and

Warm Air Heating Equipment: 2006 and 2005.” Current Industrial Reports (CIR). U.S.

Census Bureau, July 2007.

15	 “Table 2 ­ Statistics for Industry Groups and Industries: 2006 and Earlier Years.” 2006

Annual Survey of Manufacturers (ASM). U.S. Census Bureau, December 2006.

16	 Ibid.

17	 U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Form 10­K Annual Report – Goodman

Global Holdings, Inc. December 2005. http://www.secinfo.com/d14D5a.v1xDm.htm.

(Last accessed 8/10/07)

18	 U.S. Department of Energy­Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Energy

Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Screening Analysis for EPACT­Covered

Commercial HVAC and Water­Heating Equipment Screening Analysis. April 2000.

19	 Air­Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. AHRI Directory Of Certified

Performance. 2008. http://www.ahridirectory.org/ahriDirectory/pages/home.aspx (Last

accessed 6/05/08)

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