Comprehensive multi-criteria evaluation of water source heat pump systems in terms of building type, water source, and water intake distance

The performance of water source heat pump (WSHP) systems for heating or cooling buildings depends heavily on conditions such as heating and cooling demands, the water source used, and the distance to the water source. The environmental impact and the economics of using such a system are dominant factors that require consideration. Here, the performance of the WSHP system is comprehensively investigated in terms of energy, the environment, and economic feasibility in terms of three different variables: (1) building type, (2) water source, and (3) water intake distance. The building type is divided according to the ratio of heating to cooling; and river, raw, underground, and deep-sea water sources are considered. The water intake distance is analyzed in terms of horizontal and vertical distances. The results confirm that energy savings and carbon emissions are more dependent on the water source used rather than the type of building. The most influential factor in terms of economic feasibility is considered to be the type of building. The water intake distance, particularly the vertical distance, has a significant impact on all criteria in terms of energy, the environment, and economic feasibility.