Heat pump house heating system with phase change heat storage in the place of auxiliary heating

Abstract A house heating system consisting of an “energy roof” (unglazed collector), a heat pump, and medium-term phase change heat storage in the place of auxiliary heating was studied using a simple computer model. The least required storage volume is calculated and discussed as a function of the significant parameters. The choice of water for the storage medium is justified by showing the closeness of its phase change temperature to the economic optimum. The system appears technically feasible and permits minimum fossil fuel consumption together with the associated environmental benefits. Its economic position will depend on future price developments.