Without getting into too much detail, the BEopt HVAC options currently require a lot of detailed inputs to determine the efficiency of the equipment in the EnergyPlus simulation. EER/COP inputs are indeed used in conjunction with SEER/HSPF, rated fan power, etc. You can see how the EnergyPlus inputs change when you vary the BEopt inputs.
We recognize that these inputs can be very challenging for a user to obtain and make it hard to create new BEopt options. With BEopt v3 (beta to be released in mid-December), we are greatly reducing the number/complexity of inputs required.
For example, an air conditioner in BEopt v2 requires:
- Number of Speeds
- Rated SEER
- Installed SEER
- EER(s)
- Rated SHR(s)
- Capacity Ratio(s)
- Fan Speed Ratio(s)
- Rated Fan Power
- Installed Fan Power
- Crankcase Power/Temperature
In BEopt v3, the only required inputs will be:
- Number of Speeds
- Rated SEER
- Rated SHR
- Fan Power (can be defaulted)