Verification of energy efficiency testing method for room air conditioners based on dynamic load

The energy efficiency testing method for room air conditioners based on specific load and steady-state conditions in a laboratory cannot truly reflect the actual operation status and control technologies. Moreover, the dynamic measurement methods proposed internationally still lack extensive verification in terms of the setting of operational control parameters and the repeatability of results. In this study, two dynamic energy efficiency testing methods are experimentally verified with different virtual building load models, testing conditions, and convergence criteria using two 1.5HP variable frequency air conditioners in an enthalpy difference laboratory. The test results show that the load-based dynamic testing method can better reflect the actual operating energy efficiency level of air conditioners. The annual performance factor (APF) deviation measured by method 1 for the 1# prototype is about 1.5%, and the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) deviations are 5.0% and 2.0%, respectively. The repeatability of the energy efficiency under single operating conditions by method 2 for the 2# prototype is 3.8% to 11.8%. Significant deviations are observed in key parameters including cooling capacity, power consumption, virtual load, and coefficient of performance when testing identical units with different methods at an outdoor temperature of 35 ℃ during dynamic cooling operation. Therefore, to ensure the validity and operability of dynamic testing methods, further improvement of the experimental method and testing equipment is needed, and testing conditions should be optimized based on actual usage, so as to effectively improve the scientific nature of testing methods and the repeatability of testing results.