The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Tennessee Valley Authority are testing an electric ratepayer's dream a "frostless" heat pump that produces warmer air than conventional air source heat pumps, especially during the defrosting cycle and at lower overall cost. A heat pump circulating warm air through a structure can struggle when the outside temperature is low and the pump's compressor and outdoor coil motor are affected by the cold. The ORNL-developed frostless heat pump uses a device that enables it to produce warmer air faster and for longer periods while minimizing the defrosting cycle. Recent testing in several East Tennessee homes resulted in greater thermal comfort by eliminating the "cold blow" experienced with conventional heat pumps as well as more efficient operation. Further home testing this fall and winter is expected to confirm that the gained efficiency results in lower electric bills. The residential testing of the frostless heat pump is enabled through collaboration with Modern Supply, a Knoxville-based heat pump distributor, which is providing the frostless heat pump units for purchase and installation.
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