BEopt v3beta Heat Pump Changes
I see the benefits of simplifying the heat pump option configuration, but how is one meant to distinguish between cold-climate and non-cold-climate qualified heat pumps with the new version? The ramp down-fraction in BEopt 2.8 was very powerful compared to other tools, but understandably not the most familiar. What about a ccHP checkbox that switches between EPA or NEEP criteria-satisfying low-temperature performance, and more conventional options?
I am particularly interested in heatpumps since this is one way to "decarbonize" a building. I did not find the selections for heatpumps very reassuring or clear when I have been using BEopt quite recently. I have selected particular manufacturer, sizes and CCHP capabilities using the NEEP website which has a great selection tool for sizing to avoid frequent cycling of the compressor. It seems to me that if we want to get to carbon neutral so badly, the tools should be adapted and refined further. Currently you just select a low ambient CCHP with no explanation. It should be better. Thanks.