This paper reports the field monitored results of a multi-phase demonstration project to establish the technical and economic potential for residential earth-coupled heat pump systems in upstate New York . Heating and cooling performance and integrated domestic hot water were monitored at seven to nine sites during the 1982-84 period. The demonstration has shown that commercially available residential earth-coupled heat pump systems perform well (achieving heating seasonal performance factors averaging 2.5-3.0) in the northern climate and soil characteristics of upstate New York. The industry earth loop sizing rules of thumb seem appropriate in this region. Electrical demand characteristics of the technology are also attractive. In short, the demonstration has removed a great deal of technical uncertainty about residential earth-coupled heat pumps in northern climates. However, the variability of site conditions and contractor experience causes uncertainty in the installed cost of earth loops. Avenues for cost reduction have been identified. An opportunity exists for both technological and applications innovation to increase performance, lower cost, and reduce winter peak day electrical demand in the northern tier of the United States.

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