What is the typical water flow rate for water-source heat pumps operating in closed-loop systems?

The typical water flow rate for water-source heat pumps operating in closed-loop systems is commonly around 3.0 gallons per minute (gpm) per ton of cooling or heating capacity. This flow rate is essential for ensuring adequate heat transfer between the heat pump system and the water in the loop. Achieving the right flow rate is crucial for optimal efficiency and performance of the heat pump.

Operating at this flow rate helps maintain a balanced heat exchange process, allowing the heat pump to effectively absorb or reject heat. If the flow rate is too low, it can lead to insufficient heat transfer, which may cause the system to operate inefficiently and potentially harm the equipment over time. Conversely, a flow rate that is excessively high can increase pumping energy costs and lead to other operational inefficiencies.

In contrast, the lower flow rates associated with the other choices do not align with the performance characteristics typically observed in water-source heat pump systems. These systems usually require the higher flow rate of 3.0 gpm per ton to maintain effective operation under varying load conditions.