A commercially available energy-analysis computer program has been used to analyse combinations of building shape, core size, and geographical location that result in the elimination of any supplementary or boiler heat requirement in water-loop heat pump (WLHP) heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems (HVAC). A building model was developed that used typical internal building loads and operating schedules, building construction materials, glass windows, and ventilation loads. The building designer can use a simple method developed here to indicate when a boiler is not necessary for the WLHP system.

KEYWORDS: heat pumps, computer programs, calculating, analysis, water heat pumps, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, buildings, location, materials, windows, heat recovery.