Residential Smart Dual Fuel Switching System (SDFSS) for Simultaneous Reduction of Energy Cost and GHG Emissions

Abstract

As technology shifts toward more environmentally friendly alternatives, future heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in Canada are expected to transition away from natural gas heating to electrical heating. However, a relatively rapid large-scale shift from natural gas to electricity will pose issues for utilities and consumers. In order to smooth the transition from a natural gas-dominated space heating infrastructure to an electrically powered heat pump, an intermediary solution is needed to allow society to transition efficiently and cost-effectively. The proposed intermediary technology integrates a natural gas furnace (NGF) with an air source heat pump (ASHP) and utilises a smart dual fuel switching system (SDFSS) controller. In this study, an SDFSS is implemented in residential houses to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and overall operational costs. The heat-mapping analysis of the hybrid system with the SDFSS controller shows a clear seasonal shift in ASHP operation. During milder winter months, such as April, the ASHP operates significantly more, accounting for 57% of the total hours (414). ASHP usage drops dramatically in January, when it runs for only 2% of the hours (12 hours) due to higher operating costs in extremely cold conditions. This indicates that while the ASHP is a cost-effective option during moderate weather, the NGF is the preferred choice for the tested house during periods of extreme cold.  The study also highlights that the SDFSS has the potential to reduce operational costs by up to 33% compared to the single-variable switching system.