This webinar is presented by Madeline Landis, introduces the next generation of Daikin’s Rebel heat pump, highlighting its advanced features and suitability for all-electric building applications. The presentation focuses on the improved performance of the Rebel heat pump, its use of the low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant R32, and the benefits of this technology for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Madeline starts by explaining Daikin’s strategic decision to standardize the R32 refrigerant. R32 has a lower GWP compared to the widely used R410A, making it a more environmentally friendly option. In addition to its low GWP, R32 offers other advantages, such as higher efficiency, better capacity, and the ability to be recharged in the field without glide. This refrigerant is already in use in over 120 countries and is a key component in Daikin’s approach to meeting future refrigerant regulations, including the move towards electrification in building systems.
The Rebel heat pump has undergone significant upgrades while maintaining the core features of the previous model. One of the most notable improvements is its expanded operating range. The heat pump can now operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -10°F in mixed-air applications and down to the low 30s for dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS). Another enhancement is the increased backup heat capacity, allowing the system to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures without the need for additional downstream heating in extremely cold conditions.
Madeline highlights several key features designed to make the Rebel heat pump ideal for all-electric buildings, which are becoming more common as cities like Denver push for reduced reliance on fossil fuels. The heat pump’s variable speed inverter compressor ensures precise control, allowing it to adjust to building demands more efficiently. This reduces the need for supplemental heating and improves overall energy efficiency. Additionally, the unit’s new electric heat limiting controls allow users to set the maximum capacity for auxiliary electric heat, which helps manage electrical loads and lower the unit’s MCA (Minimum Circuit Ampacity) requirements.
One of the most innovative aspects of the new Rebel heat pump is its dual-point power capability. This feature allows the unit to have separate circuits for the electric heat and the heat pump itself, reducing the wire size needed for installation and providing redundancy in case of a failure. The dedicated electric heat circuit also helps optimize energy use by limiting the amount of electricity consumed during peak operation.
The webinar concludes by emphasizing the flexibility of the Rebel heat pump, which is available in sizes ranging from 3 to 31 tons, with plans to expand this range in the future. The system’s ability to perform well in cold climates, combined with its energy-efficient design and environmentally friendly refrigerant, makes it a strong choice for projects focused on sustainability and electrification.