Exergy analysis and comparison of multi-functional heat pump and conventional heat pump systems

• Exergy analysis of MHPS as well as conventional AC system is studied.
• Under space cooling mode, MHPS with DHW shows higher exergy efficiency.
• Under space heating mode, MHPS with DHW shows lower exergy efficiency.
• Dependence of exergy efficiencies on inlet water temperature is studied.

In this paper, the thermal dynamic analysis of a multi-functional heat pump system (MHPS) is made in comparison with a conventional heat pump air conditioning system. Energy and exergy efficiencies of the different systems are calculated to study influences of the components parameters, operation conditions and operation modes on the system performance. Variation of the MHPS performance with increasing hot water temperature is investigated, and performances of the major components are also studied in order to optimize the structure and operation of MHPS.