LOW HEIGHT HEAT PUMP SYSTEM AND METHOD

Abstract

Various embodiments of a low-height heat pump cabinet are disclosed. An example heat pump system includes a low-height cabinet configured to be mounted to a ceiling. The low-height cabinet includes a frame and a plurality of panels that define a compressor compartment, a blower compartment, and a plenum compartment. The frame includes one or more dividers that separate the blower compartment, the plenum compartment, and the compressor compartment from each other. The example heat pump system also includes a compressor installed horizontally in the compressor compartment, a heat exchanger installed vertically in the compressor compartment, a blower assembly installed in the blower compartment, and an air coil installed in the blower compartment.

Claims

1. A heat pump system, comprising: a low-height cabinet configured to be mounted to a ceiling, the low-height cabinet comprising a frame and a plurality of panels that define a compressor compartment, a blower compartment, and a plenum compartment, wherein the frame includes one or more dividers that separate the blower compartment, the plenum compartment, and the compressor compartment from each other; a compressor installed horizontally in the compressor compartment; a heat exchanger installed vertically in the compressor compartment; a blower assembly installed in the blower compartment; and an air coil installed in the blower compartment.

2. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the frame includes side rails, end rails, cross rails, side panels, end panels, bottom panels, and a top panel.

3. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the frame includes a first divider that separates the blower compartment from the plenum compartment.

4. The heat pump system of claim 3, wherein the frame further includes a second divider that separates the compressor compartment from the blower compartment and the plenum compartment.

5. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the frame includes an end panel and a side panel that partially form the plenum compartment, wherein each of the end panel and the side panel includes one or more knockout panels that are removable to enable ductwork to fluidly connect to the plenum compartment.

6. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels includes a first bottom panel that partially forms the blower compartment and is detachable from the frame to facilitate a technician in accessing the blower compartment from below the low-height cabinet when the low-height cabinet is mounted to the ceiling.

7. The heat pump system of claim 6, further comprising a drain pan that is installed below the air coil in the blower compartment, wherein the drain pan is configured to be removable from the blower compartment when the low-height cabinet is mounted to the ceiling.

8. The heat pump system of claim 6, wherein the blower assembly includes a blower panel, one or more blowers, and a blower motor, wherein the one or more blowers and the blower motor are mounted to the blower panel.

9. The heat pump system of claim 8, wherein the blower assembly further includes slider brackets to which the blower panel is slidably mounted, wherein the blower panel is configured to be slidably lowered at least partially out of the blower compartment when the first bottom panel is detached from the frame to facilitate the technician in accessing the one or more blowers and the blower motor from below the low-height cabinet when the low-height cabinet is mounted to the ceiling.

10. The heat pump system of claim 9, wherein the blower assembly further includes a latch coupled to the blower panel, wherein the latch is configured to engage the frame to secure the blower assembly in a retracted position in the blower compartment, wherein the latch is configured to disengage from the frame to enable the blower assembly to lower into an extended position.

11. The heat pump system of claim 10, wherein the latch is a spring-loaded latch.

12. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels includes an end panel, a plurality of side panels, and a plurality of bottom panels that partially form the compressor compartment, wherein each of the end panel, the plurality of side panels, and the plurality of bottom panels is detachable from the frame to facilitate a technician in accessing the compressor compartment when the low-height cabinet is mounted to the ceiling.

13. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the air coil is sized to fit in a low height of the low-height cabinet and provide heat exchange capable of controlling a temperature of a space.

14. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the heat exchanger is a brazed-plate heat exchanger that lies upright within a low height of the low-height cabinet and provide heat exchange capable of controlling a temperature of a space.

15. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the compressor is a horizontal rotary compressor installed horizontally in the compressor compartment to enable the compressor to fit in a low height of the low-height cabinet.

16. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the low-height cabinet further includes a control panel, an electronics housing, and a cover panel, wherein the electronics housing and the cover panel partially define an electronics compartment of the low-height cabinet, wherein the control panel is coupled to the cover panel.

17. The heat pump system of claim 16, wherein the cover panel includes a pin and the electronics housing defines a curved slot configured to receive the pin, and wherein the pin is configured to slide in the curved slot to enable the control panel to be rotated from a first position at which the control panel is oriented to be accessed horizontally and a second position at which the control panel is oriented to be accessed horizontally from below the low-height control panel.

18. The heat pump system of claim 16, further comprising a disconnect switchbox that includes a switch extending outward from a bottom side of the low-height cabinet to enable a technician to engage the switch before accessing an interior of the low-height cabinet.

19. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels includes a top panel extending along a top side of the low-height cabinet, wherein the top includes opposing flanges, wherein each of the opposing flanges defines mount holes such that one of the mount holes is located at each corner of the top panel.

20. The heat pump system of claim 18, further comprising a plurality of grommet assemblies configured to provide low-height hanger mounts for the low-height cabinet, wherein each of the plurality of grommet assemblies are configured to extend through a respective one of the mount holes and couple to a corresponding one of the opposing flanges to mount the low-height cabinet to respective hanger rods.

21. The heat pump system of claim 1, wherein the low-height cabinet has a height of about 9 inches.

22. A heat pump system, comprising: a low-height cabinet configured to be mounted to a ceiling, the low-height cabinet comprising a frame and a plurality of panels that define a compressor compartment, a blower compartment, and a plenum compartment, wherein the frame includes one or more dividers that separate the blower compartment, the plenum compartment, and the compressor compartment from each other; a horizontal rotary compressor positioned horizontally in the compressor compartment to enable the compressor to fit in a low height of the low-height cabinet; a brazed-plate heat exchanger positioned in the compressor compartment of the low-height cabinet, wherein the brazed-plate heat exchanger lies upright within the low height of the low-height cabinet and provide heat exchange capable of controlling a temperature of a space; a blower assembly positioned in the blower compartment; and an air coil positioned in the blower compartment, the air coil having a height and a length, wherein the height is configured to lie within the low height of the low-height cabinet and the length is longer than the height.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] FIG. 1 is a perspective view an embodiment of a low-height heat pump system of the instant disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 2 is a first end view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0078] FIG. 3 is a second end view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0079] FIG. 4 is a first side view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a second side view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0081] FIG. 6 is a top view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0082] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0083] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0084] FIG. 9 is another perspective view of the system of FIG. 1.

[0085] FIG. 10A is a partial perspective view of a top corner of the system of FIG. 1 that depicts a grommet assembly for mounting and/or hanging the system in a designated location.

[0086] FIG. 10B is another partial perspective view of the top corner of FIG. 10A without the grommet assembly.

[0087] FIG. 100 is another partial perspective view of the top corner of FIG. 10A with the grommet assembly of FIG. 10A secured to a bolt for mounting and/or hanging the system of FIG. 1.

[0088] FIG. 10D is a side view of the top corner of FIG. 10A with the grommet assembly of FIG. 10A secured to the bolt of FIG. 100.

[0089] FIG. 11 depicts a step of an example method of the instant disclosure for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0090] FIG. 12 depicts another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0091] FIG. 13 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0092] FIG. 14A depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0093] FIG. 14B is a closeup view of a cross rail of a frame of the system of FIG. 1.

[0094] FIG. 14C is a further closeup view of the cross rail of FIG. 14B.

[0095] FIG. 15 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0096] FIG. 16 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0097] FIG. 17 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0098] FIG. 18 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0099] FIG. 19 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0100] FIG. 20 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0101] FIG. 21 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0102] FIG. 22 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0103] FIG. 23 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0104] FIG. 24 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0105] FIG. 25 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0106] FIG. 26 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0107] FIG. 27 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0108] FIG. 28 depicts yet another step of the method for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0109] FIGS. 29A-29C depict an example flowchart of the instant disclosure for assembling the system of FIG. 1.

[0110] FIG. 30 is another perspective view of the system of FIG. 1 with bottom panels of the cabinet removed.

[0111] FIG. 31 is another perspective view of the system of FIG. 1 with panels removed to depict a control panel installed within an electronics compartment of the cabinet and rotated to be accessed horizontally.

[0112] FIG. 32 is a cutaway side view of a portion of the system of FIG. 1 that depicts the control panel of FIG. 31 installed within the cabinet and rotated to be accessed from below.

[0113] FIG. 33 is a side view of the electronics compartment of FIG. 31 as the control panel of FIG. 31 is being rotated to be accessed horizontally.

[0114] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the electronics compartment of FIG. 31 as the control panel of FIG. 31 is being rotated to be accessed horizontally.

[0115] FIG. 35 depicts a portion of the control panel of FIG. 31 and external water connections of the system of FIG. 1.

[0116] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a portion of the system of FIG. 1 with a bottom panel of the cabinet removed to access a blower-and-coil compartment of the cabinet.

[0117] FIG. 37 is another perspective view of the blower-and-coil compartment of FIG. 36.

[0118] FIG. 38A is an expanded view of a blower assembly of the system of FIG. 1 having a blower panel secured within the blower-and-coil compartment of FIG. 36 via a latch in a secured position.

[0119] FIG. 38B is another expanded view of the blower panel of FIG. 38A with the latch in a sliding position.

[0120] FIG. 39 depicts the blower assembly of FIG. 38A partially lowered from the blower-and-coil compartment of FIG. 36 via the blower panel of FIG. 38A.

[0121] FIG. 40 depicts the blower assembly of FIG. 38A further lowered from the blower-and-coil compartment of FIG. 36 via the blower panel of FIG. 38A.

[0122] FIG. 41 depicts the blower assembly of FIG. 38A fully lowered from the blower-and-coil compartment of FIG. 36 via the blower panel of FIG. 38A.

[0123] FIG. 42 is a side cutaway view of the blower assembly of FIG. 38A.

[0124] FIG. 43 depicts a perspective view of a portion of the system of FIG. 1 with a top panel of the cabinet removed.

[0125] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a bottom panel of the system of FIG. 1 through which a disconnect switch extends.

[0126] FIG. 45 is a cutaway side view of a switchbox housing the disconnect switch of FIG. 44.

[0127] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a low-height heat pump system of the instant disclosure.

[0128] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a low-height heat pump system of the instant disclosure.

[0129] FIG. 48 is another perspective view of the system of FIG. 47.

[0130] FIG. 49 is an end perspective view of the system of FIG. 47 with a panel of the cabinet removed to show a control panel of the system.

[0131] FIG. 50 is another perspective view of the system of FIG. 47 with a blower assembly in its fully lowered position and one or more bottom panels of the cabinet removed to show various system components inside in the cabinet.

[0132] FIG. 51 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of a heat pump system of the instant disclosure.

[0133] FIG. 52 is a block diagram depicting electrical components associated with one or more embodiments of the instant disclosure.

[0134] FIGS. 53A-53C depict an example flowchart for providing freeze protection for a heat exchanger associated with a heat pump system of the instant disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0135] Although the figures and the instant disclosure describe one or more embodiments of a heat pump system, one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the teachings of the instant disclosure would not be limited to these embodiments. It should be appreciated that any of the features of an embodiment discussed with reference to the figures herein may be combined with or substituted for features discussed in connection with other embodiments in this disclosure.

[0136] The instant disclosure provides an improved heat pump system comprising uniquely configured heat pump system components together with an improved enclosure that enable (i) easy and efficient assembly of the system at the factory, (ii) installation in locations that are extremely limited in height, such as the ceiling space in a housing unit, a hotel room, or a commercial office unit, for example, that separates vertically adjoining rooms or units, (iii) field configurable options for connecting to existing HVAC system components, and (iv) easy component serviceability while the system is installed. Embodiments of the improved enclosure (also interchangeably called a “cabinet,” a “cabinet system,” a “cabinet enclosure,” or a “cabinet assembly” for purposes of this disclosure) provide for a low-height heat pump system, such as a 9-inch-tall system measured from the bottom of the cabinet to the top of the cabinet. The reduced height of the cabinet and uniquely configured heat pump components housed therein enables the cabinet to be installed in shallow ceiling spaces, such as in a furred ceiling area at an entry of a hotel room, a condominium, or an apartment, etc. In turn, the reduced height of the cabinet suspended from or otherwise mounted to the ceiling reduces the total height of the corresponding floor, thereby reducing the height of each floor within a building. In some instances, the height savings for each floor that results from the cabinet of the instant disclosure may enable in an additional floor to be added for every predetermined (e.g., ten) floors in a high-rise building. Additionally, embodiments of the disclosed cabinet and the uniquely configured heat pump components housed therein increase the size of the available floor space for the corresponding unit by removing the need to dedicate a portion of the floor space, such as a dedicated closet, for the heat pump system. Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet and the uniquely configured heat pump components housed therein also are capable of being retrofitted into older buildings with reduced floor heights and minimal available floor space for a new HVAC system.

[0137] Embodiments of the low-height cabinet system disclosed herein include uniquely configured cabinet components and heat pump components therein that enable a technician to easily install the cabinet in a shallow ceiling space. Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet include integrated low-profile hanger features that facilitate the cabinet in being installed in shallow spaces. Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet are configured to house various components of a water source heat pump in a novel, compact arrangement to reduce the amount of height consumed by the HVAC system and its cabinet enclosure. For example, embodiments of the instant disclosure may be about 50 inches long, about 20 inches wide, and a maximum of about 9 inches in height. To achieve the reduced height of 9 inches, embodiments of the low-height cabinet system of the instant disclosure include a refrigerant-to-air load heat exchanger with horizontally-oriented heat exchange tubes with heat exchange passes stacked vertically above one another to a height that enables the heat exchanger to fit within the 9 inch cabinet enclosure. With the maximum height being fixed, the horizontal length of the heat exchange tubes and the number of horizontal passes are defined by the desired heat exchange between air passing over the tubes and the refrigerant conveyed within the tubes. In addition, embodiments of the instant disclosure include the use of a horizontally-oriented compressor and a relatively small brazed-plate source heat exchanger, both enabling the reduced height of 9 inches. One of ordinary skill would appreciate that the use of a brazed-pate heat exchanger introduces the risk of damage from freezing of water or other source liquid therein, and the use of a relatively small brazed-plate heat exchanger as disclosed herein only enhances that risk due to the relatively small voids or volumes of water therein that may more easily and/or more quickly freeze under the same conditions. Consequently, the use of a brazed-plate heat exchanger as disclosed herein provides unexpected advantages for helping solve the problem of achieving a low height of 9 inches. Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet also include an integrated air-discharge plenum that unexpectedly provides fan/motor sound attenuation while also allowing the integration of such components or features inside the cabinet as opposed to, for example, having a plenum entirely separate from and outside the cabinet. Additionally, embodiments of the disclosed cabinet are formed of lightweight components, such as rail frames formed of thin-gauge steel, to facilitate the cabinet in easily being installed in a ceiling space or suspended from a ceiling. Further, the components provide rigidity to the cabinet that reduces vibrations and/or lowers acoustic signatures without incorporating additional noise-insulating materials.

[0138] Embodiments of the cabinet disclosed herein include features that enable a technician to easily access and service components housed in the cabinet from underneath, for example, without having to dismount the cabinet from its installed position in or near the ceiling. In addition, embodiments of the disclosed cabinet include a plurality of side and/or bottom panel air duct connection ports that can be configured in the field at the time of installation of the unit to facilitate connection of HVAC system air ducts to the heat pump system at the time of installation. Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet include a plurality of removable side and/or bottom panels to provide the technician with multiple points of access to internal components of the cabinet, thereby facilitating the technician in servicing various internal components from below the cabinet that is installed to or suspended from the ceiling. Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet include other features, such as a removable drain pan for a load heat exchanger, such as a refrigerant-to-air heat exchanger (also called an “air coil”) and/or a retractable and removable slide deck to which one or more fans or air blowers and a corresponding drive motor are mounted, to enable servicing of the one or more fans and/or motor(s) and to further facilitate the technician in accessing various internal components of the cabinet when the cabinet remains in its installed condition.

[0139] Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet also include safety features, such as a bottom-mounted electrical disconnect switch, to increase the safety of the technician servicing the heat pump system. Other safety features are also disclosed herein. For example, embodiments of the disclosed heat pump system include a freeze-protection system and method that restricts operation of the compressor of the heat pump system to prevent damage to heat pump components when tasked with operating when, for example, the source water is near or below freezing temperatures. Additionally, embodiments of the freeze-protection system disclosed herein may be implemented in other heat pump systems to protect system components from freezing and damage.

[0140] Additionally, embodiments of the cabinet disclosed herein have a reduced part count and an easy fabrication and assembly process, thereby reducing manufacturing costs for the cabinet. For example, embodiments of assembly methods disclosed herein enable components of the cabinet to be assembled from the bottom up, where upon completion of the assembly enables components housed therein to be accessible and serviceable from underneath the cabinet when installed. Embodiments of the disclosed cabinet are configured to be modular to facilitate a streamlined process for assembling differently-oriented cabinets. For example, the modularity of the cabinet components enables the same parts to be used for a cabinet that is assembled in a right configuration, a left configuration, and a split configuration. In turn, required inventory is reduced, material utilization is optimized, and manufacturing efficiency is increased. The modularity of the cabinet components also enables the cabinet to be configured for a diverse set of environments.

[0141] Turning now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-10 illustrate various external views of an exemplary low-height heat pump system 5 of the instant disclosure, and particularly low-height heat pump cabinet assembly 10 that is configured to house uniquely configured heat pump components therein. In the illustrated example, the cabinet 10 has a low height of 9 inches, a length of 53 inches, and a depth of 22.5 inches. FIGS. 1 and 8-10 depict various perspective views of the cabinet 10, FIGS. 2-5 illustrate various elevation views of the cabinet 10, and FIGS. 6-7 depict representative top and bottom plan views, respectively, of the cabinet 10. The cabinet 10 includes a top side 20, a bottom side 25 opposite the top side 20, a first side 30, a second side 35 opposite the first side 30, a first end 40, and a second end 45 opposite the first end 40. In the illustrated example, the cabinet 10 includes a plurality of panels defining outer surfaces of the cabinet 10.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 2, an end panel 240 (also referred to as a “front panel,” a “side panel,” and an “access panel”) and portions of corner posts 180, 190 form the second end 45 of the cabinet 10.

[0143] As shown in FIG. 3, end panels 230, 235 and a portion of a corner post 170 form the first end 40 of the cabinet 10. The end panel 230 (also referred to as a “back panel,” a “side panel,” and a “discharge panel”) includes a duct panel 232 (also referred to as a “knockout panel”) that is removable from the end panel 230. The duct panel 232 is configured to be decoupled from the end panel 230 to enable ductwork of an HVAC system to fluidly connect to the cabinet 10 via a corresponding opening formed where the duct panel 232 was removed from the end panel 230. For example, the duct panel 232 includes one or more flanges extending from its edges to facilitate the duct panel 232 in being coupled to and decoupled from the end panel 230. Additionally, an outlet 712 of a drain pan 710 (FIG. 11) extends outwardly from the corner post 170. The end panel 235 (also referred to as a “side panel” and an “access panel”) is positioned next to the end panel 230 in a side-by-side manner.

[0144] As shown in FIG. 4, side panels 250, 255, a portion of the end panel 230, a portion of a corner post 180, and a portion of a divider 150 form the first side 30 of the cabinet 10. The side panel 250 (also referred to as a “discharge panel”) is positioned adjacent the first end 40, and the side panel 255 is positioned adjacent the second end 45. The side panel 250 includes a plurality of duct panels 251, 252, 253 (also referred to as a “knockout panels”) that are arranged in a side-by-side manner. The side panel 255 (also referred to as an “access panel”) is positioned next to the side panel 250 in a side-by-side manner.

[0145] Each of the duct panels 251, 252, 253 are removable from the side panel 250 to form an opening for ductwork connecting to the cabinet 10. For example, each of the duct panels 251, 252, 253 includes one or more flanges extending from its edges to facilitate the coupling to and decoupling from the side panel 250. Ductwork of the HVAC system may fluidly connect to the cabinet 10 via an opening formed by the removal of one or more of the duct panels 251, 252, 253 in addition to or as an alternative to ductwork connecting to the cabinet 10 via the end panel 230. For example, ductwork of the HVAC system may connect to the cabinet 10 via only the end panel 230, via only the side panel 250, and/or simultaneously via both the end panel 230 and the side panel 250. In the illustrated example, each of the duct panels 251, 252, 253 are equally sized. In other examples, the duct panels 251, 252, 253 are differently sized with respect to each other to facilitate differently-sized ducts in connecting to the cabinet 10. For example, the duct panel 251 having a first surface area may be removed to enable a first-sized duct to connect to the cabinet 10, or the duct panel 252 having a second surface area may be removed to enable a second-sized duct to connect to the cabinet 10. Additionally, or alternatively, different combinations of the duct panels 251, 252, 253 may be removed to facilitate differently sized ducts in connecting to the cabinet 10. For example, one of duct panels 251, 252, 253 may be removed to enable a relatively small duct to connect to the cabinet 10. Two adjacent ones of the duct panels 251, 252, 253 may be removed together to enable a moderately-sized duct to connect to the cabinet 10. All three of the duct panels 251, 252, 253 may be removed together to enable a relatively large duct to connect to the cabinet 10, for example, to facilitate proper air velocity and static pressure.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 5, a side panel 260, a portion of the corner posts 170, 190, and a portion of the divider 150 form the second side 35 of the cabinet 10. The side panel 260 (also referred to as an “access panel”) is positioned adjacent the second end 45 of the cabinet 10. An opening is defined along the second side 35 adjacent the first end 40 of the cabinet 10 between the top side 20 and the bottom side 25. The opening exposes a refrigerant-to-air load heat exchanger, such as an air coil 700 housed within the cabinet 10, to air outside of the cabinet 10. In the illustrated example, a filter rack 730 is installed upstream of the air coil 700 and is configured to house a replaceable 1″ or a 2″ filter, for example.

[0147] As shown in FIG. 6, a top panel 270 forms the top side 20 of the cabinet 10. In the illustrated example, the top panel 270 extends the entire length and width of the top side 20. As shown in FIGS. 1, 6, and 9, the top panel 270 includes flanges 272 that extend from opposing ends. One of the flanges 272 extends between the first and second sides 30, 35 and outwardly from the first end 40 of the cabinet 10. The other of the flanges 272 extends between the first and second sides 30, 35 and outwardly from the second end 45 of the cabinet 10. Additionally, each of the flanges 272 defines two mount holes 274 at opposing ends of the flange 272 such that one of the mount holes 274 is located at each corner of the top panel 270. The mount holes 274 are configured to facilitate the cabinet 10 in being suspended from or otherwise mounted to a ceiling by a technician without additional brackets.

[0148] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10C-10D, the cabinet 10 also includes a plurality of low-profile hanger mounts comprising grommet assemblies 280 that further facilitate the cabinet 10 in being secured to or suspended from the ceiling. The grommet assemblies 280 are located at the corners of the cabinet 10 and configured to prevent potential operational vibrations of the cabinet 10 from migrating to the building structure to which the cabinet 10 is installed. The grommet assemblies 280 are compact and do not extend beyond the top panel 270 to facilitate the cabinet 10 in being installed in shallow ceiling spaces, such as in a furred ceiling areas. Each of the grommet assemblies 280 extends through a respective one of the mount holes 274 and secured through a respective one of the flanges 272. Each of the grommet assemblies 280 includes a grommet 281 (e.g., rubber grommets), a washer 283, a nut 284, a lock washer 285, and a hanger rod 286. The grommet 281 includes a top cap 282 that extends through the mount hole 274 and is positioned adjacent a top surface of the flange 272. The remaining portion of the grommet 281 is positioned below a bottom surface of the flange 272. In the illustrated example, the grommet 281 contacts the bottom surface of the flange 272. The hanger rod 286 extends through the grommet 281 and the mount hole 274. The washer 283 engages a bottom of the grommet 281, the lock washer 285 engages the washer 283, and the nut 284 threadably receives the hanger rod 286. The nut 284 is threaded onto the hanger rod 286 until the nut 284 securely fastens the flange 272 of the cabinet 10 to the bolt 286.

[0149] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the bottom side 25 of the cabinet 10 is formed by a plurality of bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 that are arranged next to each other. Each of the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 are configured to be removed from a frame 100 (FIG. 11) of the cabinet 10 to enable a technician to easily access different components housed within the cabinet 10 from a position below the cabinet 10. For example, the bottom panel 212 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to enable a technician to access components that are housed adjacent the bottom panel 212, the bottom panel 214 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to enable a technician to access components that are housed adjacent the bottom panel 214, etc. In the illustrated example, the bottom panel 212 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to provide access to a plenum compartment 50 (FIG. 25) of the cabinet 10. The bottom panel 214 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to provide access to a blower compartment 60 (FIG. 25) of the cabinet 10. The bottom panel 216 and/or the bottom panel 218 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to provide access to a compressor compartment 70 (FIG. 17) of the cabinet 10. The bottom panel 220 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to provide access to an electronics compartment 80 (FIG. 27) of the cabinet 10.

[0150] FIGS. 11-28 depict various steps of an example assembly process for the heat pump system 5 of the instant disclosure. Initially, as shown in FIG. 11, a base of the frame 100 of the cabinet 10 is assembled together in an upside-down configuration at a workstation. For example, side rails 112, 114 and end rails 122, 124 of the frame 100 are coupled together (e.g., via fasteners) to form a rectangular shape and an outer frame of the cabinet 10. The frame 100 also includes cross rails 132, 134, 136 that are each coupled to one or more of the side rails 112, 114 and/or end rails 122, 124. The cross rails 132, 134 extend perpendicularly between and couple (e.g., via fasteners) to the end rails 122,124. The cross rail 136 extends perpendicularly between and couple (e.g., via fasteners) to the end rails 122 and the cross rails 134.

[0151] Subsequently, a drain pan 710 and the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 are then coupled to the frame 100 in an upside-down configuration such that the bottom side 25 is facing upward. The drain pan 710 for the air coil 700 extends between and is coupled to the end rail 122 and the cross rail 134. The drain pan 710 is configured to be easily decoupled from the frame 100 to facilitate a technician in cleaning, maintaining, and/or repairing the drain pan 710. An outlet 712 of the drain pan 710 is positioned to extend through one of two holes 121 of the end rail 122, and an opposing end of the drain pan 710 is fastened to the cross rail 134. For example, an end of the drain pan 710 includes a flange that is coupled to the cross rail 134 (e.g., via a fastener). In some examples, the outlet 712 on the opposing end of the drain pan 710 is a flexible drain coupling that is decouplable from the drain pan 710 to facilitate in the disassembly, removal, and/or servicing of the drain pan 710 with hand tools.

[0152] Additionally, the bottom panel 212 is coupled to the side rail 112, the end rail 122, and/or the cross rails 134, 136 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners) in a manner such that the bottom panel 212 covers the drain pan 710 in the upside-down orientation. The bottom panel 214 is coupled to the side rail 114, the end rail 122, and/or the cross rails 134, 136 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). The bottom panel 216 is coupled to the side rail 112 and/or the cross rails 132, 134 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners), and the bottom panel 218 is coupled to the side rail 114 and/or the cross rails 132, 134 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). The bottom panel 220 is coupled to the side rails 112, 114, the end rail 124, and/or the cross rail 132 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners).

[0153] The base of the frame 100, the drain pan 710, and the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 are then rotated right-side up and transported to an assembly line for further assembly of the cabinet 10. FIG. 12 depicts the assembled components of the cabinet 10 after being rotated right-side up. The remaining components of the cabinet 10 are assembled to the frame 100 in a right-side up orientation to enable the cabinet 10 to be assembled in a configuration that subsequently enables a technician to easily access those components from below the cabinet 10 by quickly removing one or more of the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 from the frame 100.

[0154] FIG. 13 depicts compressor cross rails 312, 314 of the cabinet 10 that are positioned to rest on the cross rails 132, 134, respectively. As shown in FIG. 14A, the compressor cross rail 312 extends between and is coupled to the side rails 112, 114. Each end of the compressor cross rail 312 is coupled to one of the side rails 112, 114 via a fastener, and a middle portion of the compressor cross rail 312 rests on a surface of the of the cross rail 132. Similarly, the compressor cross rail 314 extends between and is coupled to the side rails 112, 114. Each end of the compressor cross rail 314 is coupled to one of the side rails 112, 114 via a fastener, and a middle portion of the compressor cross rail 314 rests on a surface of the of the cross rail 134.

[0155] FIGS. 14B-14C further depict features of the cross rail 136. One or more lips 138 protrude upward from a bottom edge of the cross rail 136. Each of the lips 138 extend longitudinally along a portion of the cross rail 136 and are arranged in a side-by-side manner along the cross rail 136. Additionally, the lips 138 are longitudinally spaced apart from each other along the cross rail 136. The gaps formed between the lips 138 define blade openings 137 (to receive a lock blade 844 of a latch 842 as shown in FIG. 38A).

[0156] Returning to FIG. 14A, the frame 100 includes the divider 150 and a divider 160 (also referred to as a “blower mounting panel”), and the blower assembly includes a slider bracket 854. As shown in FIG. 15, the divider 150 includes mullions 152, 154 located at opposing ends of the divider 150. The divider 150 extends along the cross rail 134 between the side rails 112, 114, with the mullion 152 adjacent the side rail 112 and the mullion 154 adjacent the side rail 114. In the illustrated example, the divider 150 is coupled to the cross rail 134, the side rail 112, and/or the side rail 114 via fasteners. For example, the mullion 152 is coupled to and extends along a portion of the side rail 112, and the mullion 154 is coupled to and extends along a portion of the side rail 114. As disclosed below in greater detail, the divider 150 is configured to extend along the cross rail 134, between the first and second sides 30, 35, and between the top and bottom sides 20, 25 to separate the compressor compartment 70 from both the plenum compartment 50 and the blower compartment 60.

[0157] The divider 160 extends along the cross rail 136 between the end rail 122 and the divider 150. In the illustrated example, the divider 160 is coupled to the end rail 122, the cross rail 134, the cross rail 136, and/or the divider 150 via fasteners. As disclosed below in greater detail, the divider 160 is configured to extend along the cross rail 136, between the first end 40 and the divider 150, and between the top and bottom sides 20, 25 to separate the plenum compartment 50 from the blower compartment 60. The divider 160 also defines one or more openings 162 to fluidly connect the plenum compartment 50 to the blower compartment 60 such that the plenum receives heated or cooled air exiting the blower compartment 60. The duct panels 232, 251, 252, 253 enable the plenum compartment 50 to be accessed in multiple discharge directions for various duct configurations. The plenum compartment 50 enables air pressure to build for distribution down the installed duct paths. Additionally, the plenum compartment 50 facilitates a rapid expansion of airflow from the blowers 810, 820, which may have a relatively small area and a relatively high-velocity throat, thereby rapidly lowering the airflow velocity and corresponding noise due to a reduced turbulence. That is, the rapid decrease in velocity results in an integral acoustic attenuator of the cabinet 10.

[0158] As most clearly shown in FIG. 19, the slider bracket 854 is configured to extend between the top side 20 and the bottom side 25 of the cabinet 10 along the vertical edge where the divider 160 intersects the divider 150. The slider bracket 854 is coupled to the divider 150 via fasteners.

[0159] Returning to FIG. 15, heat pump system 5 includes a compressor 300 that is configured to be positioned within the compressor compartment 70 of cabinet 10 and coupled to the frame 100. The compressor 300 is coupled to compressor support rails 316, 318 that are spaced apart from and extend parallel to each other. The compressor 300 may be configured as a horizontal rotary compressor to permit the compressor to lay horizontally across support rails 316, 318 so as to minimize height of the overall heat pump system 5 , and particularly cabinet 10. As shown in FIG. 16, the compressor support rails 316, 318 are coupled to the compressor support rails 312, 314 via fasteners to couple the compressor 300 to the frame 100. When fastened together, the compressor support rails 316, 318 extend perpendicular to the compressor cross rails 312, 314. The compressor cross rails 312, 314 and the compressor support rails 316, 318 are arranged with respect to each other and the frame 100 in a manner that enables the compressor 300 to be securely fastened and supported by the frame 100 of the cabinet 10.

[0160] FIG. 16 further depicts a refrigerant-to-liquid source heat exchanger 400 of the heat pump system 5 and a support bracket 410 of the cabinet 10. In the illustrated example, the heat exchanger 400 is a brazed-plate heat exchanger, which not only possesses sufficient heat exchange capacity but is quite small so as to enable the low-height configuration of the cabinet 10. As will be discussed below, the use of a brazed-plate heat exchanger with small volumes for heat exchange may increase the chance for freezing of water or brine internally to the heat exchanger 400, which can result in significant damage to the unit. However, the risk of freezing can be minimized or eliminated using the freeze protection system and method disclosed herein. Turning again to FIG. 16, the heat exchanger 400 of this embodiment includes four ports 402, 404, 406, 408. The port 402 is an outlet port that is configured to return a liquid, such as water or brine, to a source after exchanging heat in the heat exchanger 400 with a refrigerant configured to circulate in a refrigerant circuit 650 as part of heat pump system 5. The port 404 is an inlet port that is configured to receive a liquid, such as water or brine, from a source. As disclosed in greater detail with respect to FIG. 51, the ports 406, 408 are fluidly connected to refrigerant conduit 600 of the refrigerant circuit 650 to convey refrigerant therethrough to and from various heat pump components to cool and/or heat air for a space.

[0161] As shown in FIG. 17, the support bracket 410 is coupled to other portions of the cabinet 10 to enable the heat exchanger 400 to be secured in place. For example, the support bracket 410 is coupled to the side rail 114, the cross rail 134, the compressor cross rail 314, and/or the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 154 of the divider 150) via fasteners. The heat exchanger 400, in turn, is coupled to the support bracket 410 via fasteners. Additionally or alternatively, the heat exchanger 400 may be coupled directly to the side rail 114, the cross rail 134, the compressor cross rail 314, and/or the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 154 of the divider 150) via fasteners.

[0162] In the illustrated example, the heat exchanger 400 is installed vertically within the compressor compartment 70 of the cabinet 10. The inlet port 404 is positioned to be the lowest port of the heat exchanger 400 to avoid build-up of condensation within the heat exchanger 400 when the heat exchanger 400 is operating in condensing applications. The heat exchanger 400 of the illustrated example is sized to both (1) provide enough heat exchange capabilities to comfortably control the temperature of the space and (2) fit within the low-height profile of the cabinet 10.

[0163] FIG. 17 further depicts an expansion valve 500 and a filter drier 510 of the heat pump system 5. The expansion valve 500 and the filter drier 510 are fluidly connected to each other via a portion of refrigerant conduit 600 of the heat pump system 5. As shown in FIG. 18, the filter drier 510 is fluidly connected to the port 408 via another portion of the refrigerant conduit 600. In other embodiments, the filter drier may be omitted or moved to a different location along refrigerant conduit 600.

[0164] FIG. 18 also depicts other portions of the refrigerant conduit 600 of heat pump system 5. A reversing valve 330, pressure switches 342, 344, a saddle seat 350, and a pressure switch 360 of the heat pump system 5 are connected to those portions of the refrigerant conduit 600. The reversing valve 330 includes a solenoid 332 that enables the reversing valve 330 to reverse the direction of fluid flow throughout portions of the heat pump system 5. As shown in FIG. 19, the portions of the refrigerant conduit 600 shown in in FIG. 19 are coupled to the compressor 300, the heat exchanger 400, the expansion valve 500, and the filter drier 510. In turn, the compressor 300, the heat exchanger 400, the expansion valve 500, the filter drier 510, the reversing valve 330, the pressure switches 342, 344, and the pressure switch 360 are fluidly connected to each other via the refrigerant conduit 600.

[0165] FIG. 19 further depicts the corner post 170, the air coil 700, a support bracket 720, and another portion of the refrigerant conduit 600 of the heat pump system 5. As shown in FIG. 20, the corner post 170 of the cabinet 10 is coupled to the side rail 112 and/or the end rail 122 via one or more fasteners. A bottom edge of the corner post 170 defines a hemispherical groove through which the outlet 712 of the drain pan 710 extends. In other examples, the corner post 170 may define a hole through which the outlet 712 of the drain pan 710 extends.

[0166] The support bracket 720 of the cabinet 10 is coupled to and extends along the side rail 112. The air coil 700 is positioned over the drain pan 710 such that condensation from the air coil 700 is safely collected within the drain pan 710 and removed from the cabinet 10 through the outlet 712. The air coil 700 is coupled to the side rail 112, the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 152 of the divider 150), the corner post 170, and/or the support bracket 720 via one or more fasteners to securely position the air coil 700 in place within the blower compartment 60. The air coil 700 is fluidly connected to other components of the heat pump system 5 via the refrigerant conduit 600. FIG. 20 further depicts other portions of the refrigerant conduit 600 that is configured to fluidly connect the components of the heat pump system 5 together.

[0167] FIG. 21 depicts an electronics housing 930 of the cabinet 10 that is configured to at least partially define electronics compartment 80. In the illustrated example, the electronics housing 930 includes an integrally-formed U-shaped structure with a base panel 932 and two opposing arm panels 934. The arm panels 934 extend from and perpendicularly to the base panel 932. One of the arm panels 934 defines a curved slot 936 that, as disclosed in greater detail below, facilitates a control panel 910 in being securely positioned within and/or removed from the electronics compartment 80. As shown in FIG. 22, the base panel 932 of the electronics housing 930 is configured to extend along and coupled to (e.g., via fasteners) the cross rail 132. The arm panels 934 of the electronics housing 930 extend from the cross rail 132 and to the end rail 124. In some examples the arm panels 934 are coupled to the cross rail 132 and/or the end rail 124 via fasteners.

[0168] FIG. 22 also depicts the corner post 180 the cabinet 10. In the illustrated example, the corner post 180 defines an outlet opening 182 and an inlet opening 184. Additionally, FIG. 22 depicts a flow switch 420, a motorized valve 430 (also referred to as a “motorized water valve”), a strainer valve 440, a flow regulator valve 450, and plate fittings 462, 464 of the heat pump system 5. The motorized valve 430 includes an actuator 432 that is configured to control operation of the motorized valve 430 in a motorized manner. The flow switch 420 and the plate fitting 462 are fluidly connected to each other in series. The flow regulator valve 450, the motorized valve 430, the strainer valve 440, and the plate fitting 464 are fluidly connected to each other in series. In other examples, pump 470 may take the place the of the motorized valve 430 between the strainer valve 440 and the flow regulator valve 450.

[0169] As shown in FIG. 23, the corner post 180 is coupled to the side rail 114 and/or the end rail 124 via one or more fasteners. The flow switch 420 is connected to the outlet port 402 of the heat exchanger 400. Further, the plate fitting 462 of the cabinet 10 is mounted to the corner post 180 adjacent the outlet opening 182. In turn, an outlet water leg is formed that fluidly connects the outlet port 402 to the outlet opening 182 of the cabinet 10 with the flow switch 420 positioned along the outlet water leg. The flow regulator valve 450 is connected to the inlet port 404 of the heat exchanger 400. In turn, an inlet water leg is formed that fluidly connects the inlet port 404 to the inlet opening 184 of the cabinet 10 with the flow regulator valve 450, the motorized valve 430, the strainer valve 440, and the plate fitting 464 positioned along the inlet water leg. The plate fitting 464 of the cabinet 10 is mounted to the corner post 180 adjacent the inlet opening 184 so that the inlet port 404 of the heat exchanger 400 is fluidly connected to the inlet opening 184 of the cabinet 10.

[0170] FIG. 23 further depicts another corner post 190 and a disconnect switchbox 940. The disconnect switchbox 940 includes a switch body 942, a switch 943 extending from the switch body 942, a front housing 944, a cover 946, and a rear housing 948. As shown in FIG. 24, the corner post 190 of the cabinet 10 is coupled to the side rail 112 and/or the end rail 124 via one or more fasteners. The disconnect switchbox 940 is securely coupled to the bottom panel 216 adjacent the electronics compartment 80.

[0171] As shown in FIG. 12, the front housing 944 is previously coupled to an inner surface of the bottom panel 216. To complete the assembly and installation of the disconnect switchbox 940 as shown FIG. 24, the cover 946 is positioned within the front housing 944. The switch body 942 is then positioned on the cover 946 such that the switch 943 extends through a switch opening 947 defined by the front housing 944 and the cover 946. The rear housing 948 is positioned over the front housing 944 such that the cover 946 and the switch body 942 are enclosed by the front and rear housings 944, 948. Additionally, the switch body 942, the front housing 944, the cover 946, and the rear housing 948 are coupled together via one or more fasteners. Switchbox 940 enables the switch 943 to lie within a recessed portion defined by front housing 944 (FIG. 45) so as to protect switch 943 from damage and/or unintended activation or deactivation.

[0172] FIG. 24 further depicts a blower assembly of the heat pump system 5. The blower assembly includes blowers 810, 820, a blower motor 830, a blower panel 840, a slider bracket 852, and the slider bracket 854. The blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 are mounted to the blower panel 840. As shown in FIG. 25, the blower assembly is housed within the blower compartment 60 adjacent the air coil 700. The slider bracket 852 is coupled to one end of the divider 160 adjacent the end rail 122 via one or more fasteners, and the slider bracket 854 is coupled to an opposing end of the divider 160 adjacent the divider 150 via one or more fasteners. The slider brackets 852, 854 are positioned vertically such that the slider brackets 852, 854 extend in a direction toward the bottom side 25 of the cabinet 10. The blower panel 840 is slidably mounted to the slider brackets 852, 854 such that the blower panel 840 is positioned vertically within the blower compartment 60 of the cabinet 10. As disclosed below in greater detail, the sliding configuration of the blower assembly facilitates a technician in easily accessing the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 from below when the cabinet 10 is installed to a ceiling surface.

[0173] FIG. 25 further depicts the end panel 230 and the side panel 250 each of which is a discharge panel that includes one or more duct panels. The end panel 230 includes the duct panel 232, and the side panel 250 includes the duct panels 251, 252, 253. As shown in FIG. 26, the end panel 230 is coupled to the end rail 122, the side rail 114, and/or the divider 160 via one or more fasteners. The side panel 250 is coupled to the side rail 114, and/or the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 154 of the divider 150) via one or more fasteners.

[0174] FIG. 26 further depicts a control panel 910 and a cover panel 920 of the heat pump system 5. The control panel 910 includes an electrical circuit with a plurality of electrical components that are configured to control operation of the heat pump system 5 . For example, the control panel 910 includes a controller 912 (FIG. 30) that is communicatively coupled (e.g., via wires) to a plurality of components used to control operation of the heat pump system 5. In some examples, the controller 912 is a control board. Further, in some examples, the controller 912 includes a processor 914 and memory 916 (FIG. 52). Example components communicatively connected to the controller 912 include an inlet-side water temperature sensor 403, an outlet-side water temperature sensor 405, a first low temperature sensor 502, a second low temperature sensor 504, the pressure switch 342 (also referred to as a first low pressure switch), the pressure switch 344 (also referred to as a second low pressure switch), the pressure switch 360 (also referred to as a high pressure switch), and the flow switch 420.

[0175] The control panel 910 is coupled to an underside of the cover panel 920 such that the cover panel 920 covers the control panel 910 when coupled to the electronics housing 930 within the electronics compartment 80 of the cabinet 10. The cover panel 920 is configured to cover fasteners (e.g., screws) that mount the electrical components to the control panel 910. The cover panel 920 includes a pin 922 that is configured to facilitate a technician in coupling the control panel 910 to the electronics housing 930 and/or decoupling the control panel 910 from the electronics housing 930. The pin 922 is configured to be slidably received by the curved slot 936 of the electronics housing 930 to facilitate the technician in securely positioning the control panel 910 within the electronics housing 930 and/or removing the control panel 910 from the electronics housing 930. FIG. 27 depicts the control panel 910 and the cover panel 920 when the cover panel 920 is coupled to the electronics housing 930 via the pin 922 and the curved slot 936.

[0176] FIG. 27 further depicts the top panel 270 that is to be secured along the top side 20 of the cabinet 10. As illustrated in FIG. 28, the top panel 270 includes downwardly-extending side and end flanges that are configured to be coupled to the divider 150 (e.g., the mullions 152, 154 of the divider 150), the divider 160, the corner post 170, the corner post 180, the corner post 190, the end panel 230, and/or the side panel 250 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners).

[0177] FIG. 28 depicts the end panels 235, 240 and the side panels 255, 260 that are coupled to the first and second ends 40, 45 and the first and second sides 30, 35, respectively. The end panels 235, 240 and the side panels 255, 260 are access panels that are configured to facilitate a technician in easily accessing components of the heat pump system 5 housed within the cabinet 10. For example, the end panel 235 is configured to be coupled to the end rail 122, the divider 160, the corner post 170, and/or the top panel 270 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). The end panel 240 is configured to be coupled to the end rail 124, the corner post 180, the corner post 190, and/or the top panel 270 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). The side panel 255 is configured to be coupled to the side rail 114, the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 154 of the divider 150), the corner post 180, and/or the top panel 270 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). The side panel 260 is configured to be coupled to the side rail 112, the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 152 of the divider 150), the corner post 190, and/or the top panel 270 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). In the illustrated example, each of the end panels 235, 240 and the side panels 255, 260 includes side and top guide flanges that facilitate a technician in positioning the end panels 235, 240 and the side panels 255, 260 in place.

[0178] FIGS. 29A-29C depict a flowchart of an example method 1000 to assembled the heat pump system 5 disclosed herein. While the example method 1000 is described with reference to the flowchart illustrated in FIGS. 29A-29C, many other methods of assembling the heat pump system 5 may alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and/or combined to perform the method 1000. Further, because the method 1000 is disclosed in connection with the components of FIGS. 1-28, some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0179] Initially, at block 1005, a base of the frame is assembled together at a workstation in an upside down configuration. For example, the side rails 112, 114, the end rails 122, 124, and the cross rails 132, 134, 136 are coupled together to form the base of the frame 100. At block 1010, the drain pan 710 and the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 are attached to the base of the frame 100 in an upside-down configuration. At block 1015, the base of the frame 100, the drain pan 710, and the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 are rotated right-side up and positioned on an assembly line for further assembly.

[0180] At block 1020, the compressor cross rails 312, 314 are attached to the side rails 112, 114 of the base of the frame 100. The compressor cross rail 312 is positioned to extend along and rest on the cross rail 132, and the compressor cross rail 314 is positioned to extend along and rest on the cross rail 134. At block 1025, the divider 150, including the mullions 152, 154, and the divider 160 are attached to the base of the frame 100. For example, the divider 150 is positioned to extend between the side rails 112, 114 and along the cross rail 134, and the divider 160 is positioned to extend along the cross rail 136 and between the end rail 122 and the divider 150. The divider 150 is coupled to the cross rail 134, the side rail 112, and/or the side rail 114. The divider 160 is coupled to the end rail 122, the cross rail 134, the cross rail 136, and/or the divider 150.

[0181] At block 1030, the compressor support rails 316, 318 are attached to the compressor cross rails 312, 314, for example, in a perpendicular manner. The compressor 300 is previously coupled to the compressor support rails 316, 318 such that coupling the compressor support rails 316, 318 to the compressor cross rails 312, 314 results in the compressor 300 being coupled to the base of the frame 100. At block 1035, the heat exchanger 400 is attached to the base of the frame 100 via the support bracket 410. For example, the heat exchanger 400 is a brazed-plate heat exchanger that is coupled to the frame 100 in an upright or vertical manner. At block 1040, the expansion valve 500 and the filter drier 510 are attached to the heat exchanger 400 via a portion of the refrigerant conduit 600. At block 1045, the reversing valve 330, the pressure switches 342, 344, the pressure switch 360, the compressor 300, the heat exchanger 400, the expansion valve 500, and the filter drier 510 are fluidly connected to each other via portions of the refrigerant conduit 600.

[0182] At block 1050, the support bracket 720 for the air coil 700 and the corner post 170 are attached to the base of the frame 100. For example, the support bracket 720 is coupled to and extends along the side rail 112, and the corner post 170 is coupled to the side rail 112 and/or the end rail 122. Additionally, the air coil 700 is attached to the support bracket 720, the side rail 112, the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 152 of the divider 150), and/or the corner post 170 so that the air coil 700 is positioned above the drain pan 710. At block 1055, the air coil 700 is fluidly connected to other components of the heat pump system 5, such as the expansion valve 500, via portions of the refrigerant conduit 600.

[0183] At block 1060, the electronics housing 930 is coupled to the base of the frame 100. For example, the base panel 932 of the electronics housing 930 is coupled to and extends along the cross rail 132, and the arm panels 934 of the electronics housing 930 extend between the cross rail 132 and the end rail 124 of the frame 100.

[0184] At block 1065, the corner post 180 is attached to the base of the frame 100 and water legs are connected to the heat exchanger 400. For example, the is coupled to the side rail 114 and/or the end rail 124 of the frame 100. The inlet water leg is assembled that extends between the inlet port 404 of the heat exchanger 400 and the inlet opening 184 defined by the corner post 180. The flow regulator valve 450, the motorized valve 430, and the strainer valve 440 are positioned along the inlet water leg. The outlet water leg is assembled that extends between the outlet port 402 of the heat exchanger 400 and the outlet opening 182 defined by the corner post 180. The flow switch 420 is positioned along the outlet water leg.

[0185] At block 1070, the corner post 190 is attached to the base of the frame 100, and the disconnect switchbox 940 is assembled on the bottom panel 216. For example, the corner post 190 is coupled to the side rail 112 and/or the end rail 124 of the frame 100. To assemble the disconnect switchbox 940, (1) the cover 946 is positioned within the front housing 944, (2) the switch body 942 is positioned on the cover 946 such that the switch 943 extends through the switch opening 947, (3) the rear housing 948 is positioned over the front housing 944 to enclose the cover 946 and the switch body 942 within the front and rear housings 944, 948, and (4) the switch body 942, the front housing 944, the cover 946, and the rear housing 948 are fastened together.

[0186] At block 1075, the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 are securely and slidably positioned within the blower compartment 60 of the cabinet 10. For example, the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 are mounted to the blower panel 840. The slider brackets 852, 854 are fastened in a vertical manner to opposing ends of the divider 160. The blower panel 840 is then slidably mounted to the slider brackets 852, 854 such that the blower panel 840 is positioned vertically within the blower compartment 60.

[0187] At block 1080, the discharge panels, including the end panel 230 and the side panel 250, are coupled to the frame 100 around the plenum compartment 50. For example, the end panel 230 is coupled to the end rail 122, the side rail 114, and/or the divider 160. The side panel 250 is coupled to the side rail 114 and/or the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 154 of the divider 150).

[0188] At block 1085, the control panel 910 is securely positioned within the electronics compartment 80 of the cabinet 10. For example, the control panel 910 is mounted to the cover panel 920. The cover panel 920 include the pin 922 that is slidably received by the curved slot 936 of the electronics housing 930 to securely position the control panel 910 within the electronics compartment 80.

[0189] At block 1090, the top panel 270 is attached along the top side 20 of the cabinet 10. For example, the top panel 270 is coupled to the divider 150 (e.g., the mullions 152, 154 of the divider 150), the divider 160, the corner post 170, the corner post 180, the corner post 190, the end panel 235, and/or the side panel 250. At block 1095, the access panels, including the end panels 235, 240 and the side panels 255, 260, are attached to the frame 100 and/or the top panel 270 of the cabinet 10. For example, the end panel 235 is coupled to the end rail 122, the divider 160, the corner post 180, and/or the top panel 270. The end panel 240 is coupled to the end rail 124, the corner post 180, the corner post 180, and/or the top panel 270. The side panel 255 is coupled to the side rail 114, the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 154 of the divider 150), the corner post 180, and/or the top panel 270. The side panel 260 is coupled to the side rail 114, the divider 150 (e.g., the mullion 152 of the divider 150), the corner post 190, and/or the top panel 270.

[0190] FIG. 30 depicts the bottom side 25 of the heat pump system 5 with the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 removed from the frame 100 of the cabinet 10. For example, the bottom panel 212 is decoupled from the frame 100 to enable a technician positioned below the heat pump system 5 to easily access and service components of the heat pump system 5 housed within the blower compartment 60, such as the air coil 700, the drain pan 710, the blowers 810, 820, and the blower motor 830. Additionally or alternatively, the end panel 235 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to facilitate the technician in accessing the components housed in the blower compartment 60. The bottom panel 214 is decoupled from the frame 100 to enable the technician positioned below the heat pump system 5 to easily access the plenum compartment 50. The bottom panels 216, 218 are decoupled from the frame 100 to enable the technician positioned below the heat pump system 5 to easily access and service components housed within the compressor compartment 70, such as the compressor 300, the heat exchanger 400, and the filter drier 510. Additionally or alternatively, the side panel 255 and the side panel 260 are configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to facilitate the technician in accessing the components housed in the compressor compartment 70. For example, FIG. 31 depicts the heat pump system 5 when the side panel 260 is decoupled from the frame 100 of the cabinet 10 to provide access to the motorized valve 430, the strainer valve 440, the flow regulator valve 450, and the filter drier 510 of the heat pump system 5. The bottom panel 220 is decoupled from the frame 100 to enable the technician positioned below the heat pump system 5 to easily access and service components housed within the electronics compartment 80 of the cabinet 10, such as the controller 912 and/or other components of to the control panel 910. Additionally or alternatively, the end panel 240 is configured to be decoupled from the frame 100 to facilitate the technician in accessing the components of the heat pump system 5 housed in the electronics compartment 80. For example, FIG. 31 depicts the heat pump system 5 when the end panel 240 is decoupled from the frame 100 of the cabinet 10 to provide access to the control panel 910.

[0191] FIGS. 31-34 further depict features of the cabinet 10 that enable the technician to access and, in turn, service and/or replace electrical components of the control panel 910 such as the controller 912, when the heat pump system 5 is installed along a ceiling surface. FIG. 31 depicts the control panel 910 housed securely within and rotated to be accessed horizontally via the first side 30, the second side 35, and/or the second end 45. The electronics compartment 80 is defined by the bottom panel 220, the cover panel 920, and the electronics housing 930. FIG. 32 is a cutaway side view of the control panel 910 housed securely within the electronics compartment 80 and oriented to be accessed from below the heat pump system 5. FIGS. 33-34 depict the control panel 910 being rotated within the electronics housing 930 via the pin 922 and the curved slot 936.

[0192] To secure the control panel 910 within the electronics compartment 80, the end panel 240 is detached from the frame 100. The control panel 910 and the cover panel 920 is then inserted into the electronics compartment 80 through an opening where the end panel 240 was previously located. The control panel 910 and the cover panel 920 are positioned and oriented such that the pin 922 of the cover panel 920 is inserted into the curved slot 936 of the electronics housing 930. A cap is attached to the pin 922 to securely retain the pin 922 within the curved slot 936. The pin 922 of the cover panel 920 is then slid to an upper end of the curved slot 936 at which the pin 922 rests such that the cover panel 920 and the control panel 910 is slid and rotated into a rest position within the electronics compartment 80. In some examples, an edge of the cover panel 920 is secured to the corner posts 180, 190 via fasteners to further secure the control panel 910 in place. The end panel 240 is then reattached to the frame 100 to securely enclose the control panel within the electronics compartment 80.

[0193] When the control panel 910 is installed within the electronics compartment 80, the curved slot 936 and the pin 922 enable the control panel to be rotated by the technician (e.g., about 120 degrees) so that the control panel 910 faces slightly upward and toward the second end 45 of the cabinet 10. To access the control panel 910 for service, the end panel 240, the side panel 255, and/or the side panel 260 is detached from the frame 100. In some examples, the cover panel 920 is decoupled from the corner posts 180, 190 while the control panel 910 remains facing downward. The control panel 910 and the cover panel 920 are slid and rotated (e.g., about 120 degrees) via the pin 922 and the curved slot 936 so that the control panel 910 faces slightly upward and toward the second end 45 of the cabinet 10. Once the control panel 910 is serviced, the control panel 910, cover panel 920, the end panel 240, the side panel 255, and/or the side panel 260 are securely retained to their rest positions.

[0194] FIG. 35 depicts a corner of the cabinet 10 that is formed where the first side 30 and the second end 45 meet. In the illustrated example, the corner post 180, the end panel 240, and the side panel 255 are decoupled from the end rail 124 and the side rail 114 of the frame 100. Components housed within the electronics compartment, such as the controller 912, are accessible to the technician when the end panel 240 is detached from the frame 100. Components housed within the compressor compartment 70, such as the motorized valve 430, the strainer valve 440, the flow regulator valve 450, the expansion valve 500, and the filter drier 510, are accessible to the technician when the side panel 255 is detached from the frame 100. The plate fittings 462, 464 are accessible when the corner post 180 is detached from the frame 100.

[0195] FIGS. 36-41 features of the cabinet 10 that enable components housed within the blower compartment 60, such as the air coil 700, the drain pan 710, the blowers 810, 820, and the blower motor 830, to be easily accessed by the technician from below the heat pump system 5. As shown in FIGS. 36-37 the blower compartment 60 is accessed by decoupling the bottom panel 212 from the frame 100. For example, the bottom panel 212 is detached from the side rail 112, the end rail 122, the cross rail 134, and/or the cross rail 136 of the frame 100.

[0196] As further depicted in FIGS. 38A-42, the blower assembly includes a sliding mechanism that facilitates the technician in accessing the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 from the below the heat pump system 5 installed to a ceiling surface. The blower panel 840 is slidingly engaged to the slider brackets 852, 854 of the blower assembly. The blower panel 840 is configured to slide along the slider brackets 852, 854, which that are fixed in place, to slide the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 into and/or out of the blower compartment 60 of the cabinet 10. The blower assembly also includes a latch 842 that enables the sliding mechanism to rest in a retracted position at which the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 are completely within the blower compartment 60. The blower assembly is configured to provide a rigidity to the cabinet 10 that reduces vibrations and/or lowers acoustic signatures without incorporating additional noise-insulating materials.

[0197] FIGS. 38A and 38B depict the blower assembly in the retracted position. More specifically, FIG. 38A depicts the sliding mechanism in the retracted position with the latch 842 in a locked position, and FIG. 38B depicts the sliding mechanism in the retracted position with the latch 842 in an unlocked position. A first end of the latch 842 is fastened to the blower panel 840 via a first fastener 846, and an opposing second end of the latch 842 is couplable to the blower panel 840 via a second fastener 848. The latch 842 is spring loaded and also includes a lock blade 844 that extends from the second end. When the latch 842 is in the locked position as shown in FIG. 38A, the second fastener 848 is coupled to the blower panel 840 to secure the second end of the latch 842 to the blower panel 840. In turn, the lock blade 844 extends into one of the blade openings 137 (FIGS. 14A-140) defined by the lips 138 (FIGS. 14A-14C) of the cross rail 136. When lock blade 844 is extended into one of the blade openings 137, the lock blade 844 of the latch 842 prevents the blower panel 840 from sliding downward via the slider brackets 852, 854. To transition the latch 842 to the unlocked position as shown in FIG. 38B, the second fastener 848 is decoupled from the blower panel 840. The second end of the latch 842 is biased to flex away from the surface of the blower panel 840. In turn, when the second fastener 848 is removed, the second end of the latch 842 flexes away from the blower panel 840 and the lock blade 844 of the latch 842 is slide out of the blade opening 137. When the lock blade 844 is removed from the blade opening 137, the blower panel 840 is enabled to slide downward via the slider brackets 852, 854.

[0198] FIGS. 39 and 40 depict respective intermediate positions at which the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 are extended partially out of the blower compartment 60. FIGS. 41 depicts the sliding mechanism in a fully extended position at which the blowers 810, 820 and the blower motor 830 are completely outside of the blower compartment 60. As shown in FIG. 42, the blower assembly includes a hanger-stop assembly that deters the blower panel 840 from unintentionally sliding beyond and disconnecting from the slider brackets 852, 854. The hanger-stop assembly includes one or more of the lips 138 of the cross rail 136 and a lip 849 at a top end of the blower panel 840. When the blower panel 840 has been slid to the bottom of the slider brackets 852, 854 at the fully extended position, the lip 849 of the blower panel 840 engages and hangs from the lips 138 of the cross rail 136 in such a manner that the blower panel 840 is impeded from disconnecting from the slider brackets 852, 854. The hanger-stop assembly also is configured to enable the technician to fully remove the blower panel 840. For example, to remove the blower panel 840, the technician is to lift the blower panel 840 slightly upward, tilt the blower panel 840 toward the side rail 112, and pull the blower panel 840 away from the slider brackets 852, 854.

[0199] FIG. 43 further depicts the bottom side 25 of a portion of the cabinet 10 with the bottom panels 212, 214, 216, 218 removed from the frame 100. For example, the bottom panel 212 is decoupled from the frame 100 to provide access to components of the heat pump system 5 housed within the blower compartment 60, such as the air coil 700, the blowers 810, 820, and the blower motor 830. The bottom panel 214 is decoupled from the frame 100 to provide access to the plenum compartment 50. The bottom panels 216, 218 are decoupled from the frame 100 to provide access to components housed within the compressor compartment 70.

[0200] In the illustrated example, the plenum compartment 50 is formed by the divider 150, the divider 160, the bottom panel 212, the end panel 230, the side panel 250, and the top panel 270. The blower compartment 60 is formed by the divider 150, the divider 160, the corner post 170, the bottom panel 214, the end panel 235, and the top panel 270. Additionally, the compressor compartment 70 is formed by the divider 150, the divider 160, the corner posts 180, 190, the bottom panels 216, 218, the end panel 240, the side panels 255, 260, and the top panel 270. The electronics compartment 80 is formed by the bottom panel 220, the end panel 240, the top panel 270, and the electronics housing 930.

[0201] FIGS. 44-45 further depict the disconnect switchbox 940 of the heat pump system 5 that is coupled to the bottom panel 216. As shown in FIG. 45, the front housing 944 is coupled to an inner surface of the bottom panel 216. The cover 946 is positioned within the front housing 944. The switch body 942 is positioned on the cover 946 such that the switch 943 extends through the switch opening 947. The rear housing 948 is positioned over the front housing 944 such that the cover 946 and the switch body 942 are enclosed by the front and rear housings 944, 948. The switch 943 extends through the switch opening 947 and out of the bottom side 25 of the cabinet 10 to enable the technician to easily change the position of the switch 943 thereby safely shutting off electrical power to the heat pump system 5 from below the heat pump system 5 before accessing components of the heat pump system 5 housed within the interior of the cabinet 10.

[0202] FIG. 46 depicts another embodiment of a low-height heat pump system 2050 having a low-height heat pump cabinet 2100 as disclosed herein. The components of the heat pump system 2050 housed within the cabinet 2100 may be identical to those housed in the cabinet 10. Additionally, the cabinet 2100 is substantially similar to the cabinet 10. For example, the bottom panels 212, 216, 218, 220; the end panel 240; the side panels 250, 255; the top panel 270 and other components not shown are identical to those of the cabinet 10. As such, those components and their functionality are not disclosed in further detail below with respect to the heat pump system 2050 and the cabinet 2100.

[0203] As shown in FIG. 46, the cabinet 2100 includes a bottom panel 2214 that is adjacent the plenum compartment 50. The bottom panel 2214 is coupled to the side rail 114, the end rail 122, and/or the cross rails 134, 136 via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). The bottom panel 2214 includes a plurality of duct panels 2221, 2222, 2223 (also referred to as a “knockout panels”) that are arranged in a side-by-side manner. Each of the duct panels 2221, 2222, 2223 are removable from the bottom panel 2214 to form an opening for ductwork connecting to the plenum compartment 50 of the cabinet 2100. Ductwork of the HVAC system may fluidly connect to the cabinet 2100 via an opening formed by the removal of one or more of the duct panels 2221, 2222, 2223 in addition to or as an alternative to ductwork connecting to the cabinet 2100 via the end panel 230 and/or the side panel 250. For example, ductwork of the HVAC system may connect to the cabinet 2100 via only the end panel 230, via only the side panel 250, via only the bottom panel 2214 and/or simultaneously via any combination of the end panel 230, the side panel 250, and the bottom panel 2214. In the illustrated example, each of the duct panels 2221, 2222, 2223 are equally sized. In other examples, the duct panels 2221, 2222, 2223 are sized differently with respect to each other to facilitate differently-sized ducts in connecting to the cabinet 2100. Additionally or alternatively, different combinations of the duct panels 2221, 2222, 2223 may be removed to facilitate differently-sized ducts in connecting to the cabinet 2100.

[0204] FIGS. 47-50 depicts another embodiment of a low-height heat pump system 3050 having a low-height heat pump cabinet assembly 3100 as disclosed herein. The components of the heat pump system 3050 housed within the cabinet assembly 3100 may be similar to those housed in the cabinet 10. For example, the compressor 300, the reversing valve 330, the expansion valve 500, the filter drier 510, the heat exchanger 400, the air coil 700, the control panel 910, the blower assembly, the sensors, the switches, etc. are identical to those housed in the cabinet 10. Additionally, the cabinet assembly 3100 is substantially similar to the cabinet 10. For example, the corner posts 170, 180, 190; the bottom panel 220; the end panels 230, 240; the side panels 250, 255, 260; and other components not shown are identical to those of the cabinet 10. As such, those components and their functionality are not disclosed in further detail below with respect to the heat pump system 3050 and the cabinet assembly 3100.

[0205] As shown in FIGS. 47-50, the heat pump system 3050 is a split system with the cabinet assembly 3100 including a first cabinet 3110 and a second cabinet 3120 that are split apart from each other. The first cabinet 3110 includes the plenum compartment 50 and the blower compartment 60, and the second cabinet 3120 includes the compressor compartment 70 and the electronics compartment 80. The first cabinet 3110 is connected to the second cabinet 3120 via refrigeration lines, electrical/power lines, and/or computer control lines. The first cabinet 3110 and/or the second cabinet 3120 may be wired or wirelessly (Wi-Fi/cellular/Bluetooth, etc.) connected to one another and/or to other local or remote equipment, including a thermostat, a controller, a display, and/or a user interface operating in a web browser, for example. In this way, a user may locally or remotely monitor a sensor, component, or function of heat pump system 3050 or locally or remotely interact with and/or control a function of heat pump system 3050. The split configuration of heat pump system 3050 allows the first cabinet 3110 to be mounted in a different location than the second cabinet 3120 to accommodate architectural/physical constraints, such as beams, purlins, structural members, plumbing, and other building systems, and to provide maximum flexibility for installation in a particular building. For example, the second cabinet 3120 can be positioned in a closet adjacent to, for example, an apartment's water heating system while the first cabinet 3110 can be positioned in the ceiling. Example embodiments of the first cabinet 3110 may be about 35 inches long, about 25 inches wide, and a maximum of about 9 inches in height. In the illustrated example, the first cabinet 3110 has a low height of 9 inches, a length of 33.71 inches, and a depth of 22.5 inches. Example embodiments of the second cabinet 3120 may be about 27.5 inches long, about 25 inches wide, and a maximum of about 9 inches in height. The second cabinet 3120 of the illustrated example has a low height of 9 inches, a length of 26.097 inches, and a depth of 22.5 inches.

[0206] In the illustrated example, the second cabinet 3120 includes the corner posts 180, 190; end panels 240, 3230; side panels 255, 260; bottom panels 220, 3218; and a top panel 3275. The end panels 240, 3230, the side panels 255, 260, and the bottom panels 220, 3128 are configured to be removed from the second cabinet 3120 to provide access to components of the heat pump system 3050 housed within the first cabinet 3120. For example, in FIG. 49, the end panel 240 is removed to provide access to the control panel 910 housed within the electronics compartment 80 of the second cabinet 3120.

[0207] The first cabinet 3110 of the illustrated example includes the corner post 170; end panels 230, 3240, 3244; knockout panels 3242, 3246; a mullion 3248; the side panel 250; a bottom panel 3212, and a top panel 3270. The end panel 230 is located on a first end of the first cabinet 3110 The end panels 3240, 3244; the knockout panels 3242, 3246; and the mullion 3248 are located on an opposing second side. The knockout panels 3242, 3246 are configured to be removed from first cabinet 3110 to provide access to the plenum compartment 50 and/or the blower compartment 60. For example, one or more of the knockout panel 3242, 3246 is removed from the first cabinet 3110 to enable a portion of the refrigerant conduit 600 and/or electrical wiring to extend between (1) the plenum compartment 50 and/or the blower compartment 60 of the first cabinet 3110 and (2) the compressor compartment 70 and/or the electronics compartment 80 of the second cabinet 3120. The side panel 250 includes the duct panels 251, 252, 253 that are removable to form an opening for ductwork connecting to the plenum compartment 50. The bottom panel 3212 also includes duct panels 3214, 3215, 3216 that are removable to form an opening for ductwork connecting to the plenum compartment 50. As shown in FIG. 49, another bottom panel 3213 is coupled to the bottom panel 3212 that extends a length and width of the first cabinet 3110. As shown in FIG. 50, the bottom panel 3213 is configured to be decoupled from the bottom panel 3212 to provide access to the blowers 810, 820; the blower motor 830; and the blower panel 840 of the blower assembly housed within the blower compartment 60.

[0208] FIG. 51 is a schematic illustrating the modes of operation of heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050. The components of heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 are fluidly coupled together via refrigerant conduit 600. Control components, including control input devices and control output devices, of heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 are communicatively coupled to the controller 912. For example, control input devices of heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 include the temperature sensors 403, 405, 502, 504, the flow switch 420, and the pressure switches 342, 344, 360. The control input devices of heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 that are communicatively coupled to the controller 912 to control the conditioning of the space include, for example, the compressor 300, the reversing valve 330, and the blowers 810, 820.

[0209] In the illustrated example, refrigerant circuit 650 of heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 includes various portions of refrigerant conduit 600 to convey refrigerant therethrough, including first portion 1120 extending from the compressor 300 to the fourth port 337 of reversing valve 330, second portion 1130 extending from the second port 335 of reversing valve 330 to the port 406 of the refrigerant-to-liquid source heat exchanger 400, third portion 1140 extending from the port 408 of the source heat exchanger 400 to the filter drier 510 and to the expansion valve 500, fourth portion 1150 extending from the expansion valve 500 to the refrigerant-to-air load heat exchanger identified in these example embodiments as air coil 700, fifth portion 1160 extending from the air coil 700 to the first port 334 of reversing valve 330, and sixth portion 1170 extending from the third port 336 of reversing valve 330 to a suction accumulator 320 (FIG. 15) and to the compressor 300.

[0210] Heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 also include source loop 1110 to convey a liquid, such as water or brine, for example, to and from a source and to and from source heat exchanger 400 to enable heat exchange between the refrigerant and the liquid from the source.

[0211] The source loop 1110 of the illustrated example includes the inlet water leg and the outlet water leg. The inlet water leg is connected to the inlet port 404 of the heat exchanger 400 and the outlet water leg is connected to the outlet port 402 of the heat exchanger 400.

[0212] In the illustrated example, the inlet water leg is configured to receive water, or brine, or other liquid from a source. The inlet side of the strainer valve 440 is configured to receive the water, for example, from the source. The outlet side of the strainer valve 440 is connected to the inlet side of the optional motorized valve 430, the outlet side of the motorized valve 430 is connected to the inlet side of the optional pump 470, the outlet side of the pump 470 is connected to the inlet side of the optional flow regulator valve 450, and the outlet side of the flow regulator valve 450 is connected to the inlet port 404 of the heat exchanger 400. In some examples, the motorized valve 430, the pump 470, and/or the flow regulator valve 450 are optional components that may not be included in the source loop 1110. Additionally, the temperature sensor 403 is positioned along the inlet water leg adjacent the inlet port 404 to measure the temperature of water entering the heat exchanger 400.

[0213] The outlet water leg of the illustrated example is configured to return the water to the source. The outlet port 402 of the heat exchanger 400 side is connected to the inlet side of the flow switch 420, and the outlet side of the flow switch 420 is fluidly connected to the source. As disclosed below in greater detail, the flow switch 420 is configured to detect when the flow rate of the water leaving the heat exchanger 400 is less than a predefined temperature threshold. In other examples, a flow sensor and/or other flow monitoring device is used to detect when the flow rate is less than the predefined temperature threshold. Additionally, the temperature sensor 405 is positioned along the outlet water leg adjacent the outlet port 402 to measure the temperature of water leaving the heat exchanger 400.

[0214] As illustrated in FIG. 51, the temperature sensor 502 is positioned along the third portion 1140 of the refrigerant conduit 600 of refrigerant circuit 650 between the filter drier 510 (if present) and adjacent to the expansion valve 500 to measure a temperature of the refrigerant along the third portion 1140. The temperature sensor 504 is positioned along the fourth portion 1150 of the refrigerant conduit 600 of refrigerant circuit 650 adjacent to the expansion valve 500 to measure a temperature of the refrigerant along the fourth portion 1150. A condensate sensor 715 is positioned on or near drain pan 710 to detect the presence of condensate collected by the drain pan 710 from air coil 700.

[0215] The pressure switches 342, 344 are positioned along the sixth portion 1170 of the refrigerant conduit 600 of refrigerant circuit 650 between the reversing valve 330 and the suction accumulator 320 to monitor for a low pressure of the refrigerant during a cooling mode. As disclosed below in greater detail, the pressure switches 342, 344 are configured to detect when the pressure along the sixth portion 1170 is less than respective predefined pressure thresholds. In other examples, pressure sensors and/or other pressure monitoring devices are used to detect when the pressure is less than the predefined pressure thresholds. Additionally, in the illustrated example, a connection point 345 to controller 912 is positioned along the sixth portion 1170 between the reversing valve 330 and the suction accumulator 320 for monitoring a temperature and a pressure of the expansion valve 500.

[0216] The pressure switch 360 is positioned along the first portion 1120 of the refrigerant conduit 600 of refrigerant circuit 650 to monitor for a high pressure of the refrigerant during a cooling mode. As disclosed below in greater detail, the pressure switch 360 is configured to detect when the pressure along the first portion 1120 is greater than a predefined pressure threshold. In other examples, a pressure sensor and/or other pressure monitoring device is used to detect when the pressure is greater than the predefined pressure threshold.

[0217] The heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 of the illustrated example are reversible flow heat pumps and can be configured to operate in a cooling mode and a heating mode by configuring reversing valve 330 to change the direction of flow of the refrigerant (see arrows in FIG. 51) through refrigerant conduit 600. In one operating mode, the heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 can be configured to operate in a cooling mode to provide air conditioning and, thus, cool a space. For example, when heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 are configured to operate in a cooling mode, the blowers 810, 820 may draw air through and/or across the air coil 700 acting as an evaporator to cool air for the space. In another operating mode, the heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 can be configured to operate in a heating mode to heat the space. For example, when heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 are configured to operate in a heating mode, the blowers 810, 820 may draw air through and/or across the air coil 700 configured as a condenser to heat air for the space. The controller 912 is configured to control a configuration of the reversing valve 330 to transition between the cooling mode and the heating mode of the heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050.

[0218] To place heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 in a cooling mode, the controller 912 sends a signal to the reversing valve 330 that causes the reversing valve 330 to fluidly connect (1) the first port 334 to the third port 336 and (2) the second port 335 to the fourth port 337. In the illustrated example, the refrigerant flows in a counterclockwise direction through the refrigerant conduit 600. Superheated refrigerant gas leaving the compressor is directed to (1) the fourth port 337 of the reversing valve 330, (2) which conveys the refrigerant from the second port 335 of the reversing valve 330 to port 408 and through the heat exchanger 400 acting as a condenser, (3) through the filter drier 510, (4) through the expansion valve 500, (5) through the air coil 700 acting as an evaporator, (6) through the first port 334 of the reversing valve 330, (7) through the third port 336 of the reversing valve 330, (8) through the suction accumulator 320, and (9) back to the compressor 300.

[0219] To place heat pump systems 5, 2050, 3050 in a heating mode, the controller 912 sends a signal to the reversing valve 330 that causes the reversing valve 330 to fluidly connect (1) the first port 334 to the second port 335 and (2) the third port 336 to the fourth port 337. In the illustrated example, the refrigerant flows in a clockwise direction through the refrigerant conduit 600. Superheated refrigerant gas leaving the compressor is directed to (1) the fourth port 337 of the reversing valve 330, (2) which conveys the refrigerant from the first port 334 of the reversing valve 330 to port 408 and through the air coil 700 acting as a condenser, (3) through the expansion valve 500, (4) through the filter drier 510, (5) through the heat exchanger 400 acting as an evaporator, (6) through the second port 335 of the reversing valve 330, (7) through the third port 336 of the reversing valve 330, (8) through the suction accumulator 320, and (9) back to the compressor 300.

[0220] As described above for heat pump system 3050, heat pump systems 5, 2050 may be wired or wirelessly (Wi-Fi/cellular/Bluetooth, etc.) connected to other local or remote equipment, including a thermostat, a controller, a display, and/or a user interface operating in a web browser, for example. In this way, a user may locally or remotely monitor a sensor, component, or function of heat pump systems 5, 3050 or locally or remotely interact with and/or control a function of heat pump systems 5, 3050.

[0221] FIG. 52 depicts electronic components of the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, and/or the heat pump system 3050. In the illustrated example, the electronic components include the controller 912, a thermostat 918, one or more input devices, and one or more output devices.

[0222] The controller 912 includes a processor 914 and memory 916. The processor 914 may include any suitable processing device or set of processing devices such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, an integrated circuit. The memory 916 may include volatile memory (e.g., RAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, etc.), unalterable memory (e.g., EPROMs), read-only memory, and/or combinations thereof. The memory 916 is computer readable media on which one or more sets of instructions, such as the software for operating the methods of the present disclosure, can be embedded. For example, the instructions may embody one or more of the methods or logic as described herein.

[0223] The terms “non-transitory computer-readable medium” and “computer-readable medium” include a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. Further, the terms “non-transitory computer-readable medium” and “computer-readable medium” include any tangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that cause a system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein. As used herein, the term “computer readable medium” is expressly defined to include any type of computer readable storage device and/or storage disk and to exclude propagating signals.

[0224] The input devices include the pressure switch 342, the pressure switch 344, the pressure switch 360, the temperature sensor 403, the temperature sensor 405, flow switch 420, the temperature sensor 502, the temperature sensor 504, and/or any other input device of the heat pump system 5. The output devices include the compressor 300, the reversing valve 330, and the blower motor 830. In the illustrated example, the controller 912 is communicatively coupled (e.g., via wires) to the thermostat 918. The controller 912 also is communicatively coupled (e.g., via wires) to the compressor 300, the reversing valve 330, and the blower motor 830. Further, in other examples, the controller 912 is communicatively coupled (e.g., via wires) to other devices, such as the motorized valve 430, the pump 470, the expansion valve 500, the air coil 700, etc.

[0225] FIGS. 53A-53C depict a flowchart of an example method 1200 for operating a freeze-protection system for the heat exchanger 400 of the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, and/or the heat pump system 3050. One of ordinary skill would appreciate that the freeze protection system and related methods disclosed herein may be applied to any liquid source heat pump or similar system to minimize risk of damage to components that may arise due to ambient freezing conditions. The freeze-protection system of the instant disclosure is configured to prevent the water, brine, brine mixture, or other source liquid in the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, and/or the heat pump system 3050 from freezing conditions and, in turn, protect the heat exchanger 400 from being damaged, particularly but not exclusively when the heat exchanger 400 is a brazed-plate heat exchanger that is sized to be installed vertically within the low-height cabinet 10, the cabinet 2100, and/or the cabinet 3100 and/or in systems with small liquid source volume. For example, the freeze-protection system is configured to prevent the water, brine, brine mixture, or other source liquid from freezing that may otherwise occur due to (1) a startup at low ambient temperatures that corresponds with a low evaporating temperature and pressure, (2) no and/or otherwise disrupted flow rate of the water through the source loop 1110, and/or (3) a simultaneous stopping of the compressor 300 and the pump 470 (also referred to as a “water pump”) at low suction temperatures. Additionally, the strainer valve 440 (e.g., a 20-mesh y strainer) deters the refrigerant from freezing that may otherwise occur due to fouling.

[0226] The flowchart of FIGS. 53A-53C is configured to be executed by the controller 912. For example, the flowchart is representative of machine readable instructions that are stored in memory and include one or more programs which, when executed by the controller 912, cause the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, and/or the heat pump system 3050 to perform the blocks of FIGS. 53A-53C. While the example program is described with reference to the flowchart illustrated in FIGS. 53A-53C, many other methods of performing a freeze-protection sequence may alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and/or combined to perform the method 1200. Further, because the method 1200 is disclosed in connection with the components of FIGS. 1-28 and 30-52, some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0227] Initially, at block 1205 of Fig, 53A, the controller 912 determines whether a signal has been received from a thermostat to turn the compressor 130 on. In response to the controller 912 determining that such a signal has not been received, the method 1200 returns to block 1205. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that such a signal has been received, the method 1200 proceeds to block 1210 at which the water flowing through the source loop 1110 is monitored for low flow rates.

[0228] FIG. 53B depicts a flowchart of an example method 1210 to perform the block 1210 of FIG. 53B for monitoring the flow rate of water flowing through the source loop 1110. Initially, at block 1212, the controller 912 determines whether the pump 470 or the motorized valve 430 is on. In response to the controller 912 determining that the pump 470 or the motorized valve 430 is not on, the method 1210 returns to block 1212. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that the pump 470 or the motorized valve 430 is on, the method 1210 proceeds to block 1216. At block 1216, the controller 912 determines whether the water flowing of the source loop 1110 is less than a predefined flowrate threshold and has been less than the predefined flowrate threshold continuously for at least a first predefined duration (e.g., 10 seconds). For example, the flow switch 420 is configured to monitor the water flow rate. In some examples, the flow switch 420 has an open contact when the flow rate is less than the predefined flowrate threshold and sends a corresponding signal to the controller 912. In turn, the controller 912 determines that the water flow rate has been less than the predefined flowrate threshold for at least the first predefined duration when it continuously receives a corresponding signal from the flow switch 420 for the first predefined duration.

[0229] In response to the controller 912 determining that the water flowrate (1) is not currently less than the predefined flowrate threshold or (2) has not been less than the predefined flowrate threshold continuously for at least the first predefined duration, the method 1210 proceeds to block 1218 at which the controller 912 enables the compressor 300 to be run. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that the water flowrate is currently less than the predefined flowrate threshold and has been less than the predefined flowrate threshold continuously for at least the first predefined duration, the method 1210 proceeds to block 1220 at which the controller 912 disables the compressor 300.

[0230] At block 1222, the controller 912 determines whether the water flowing of the source loop 1110 is less than the predefined flowrate threshold and has been less than the predefined flowrate threshold continuously for at least a second predefined duration (e.g., 50 seconds). The second predefined duration is greater than the first predefined duration. In response to the controller 912 determining that the water flowrate (1) is not currently less than the predefined flowrate threshold or (2) has not been less than the predefined flowrate threshold continuously for at least the second predefined duration, the method 1210 returns to block 1212. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that the water flowrate is currently less than the predefined flowrate threshold and has been less than the predefined flowrate threshold continuously for at least the second predefined duration, the method 1210 proceeds to block 1224 at which the controller 912 disables the pump 470 or the motorized valve 430. At block 1226, the controller 912 sets the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 into a lockout mode.

[0231] Returning to FIG. 53A, the controller 912 determines, at block 1230, whether the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has been set in the lockout mode due to a low flow rate of the water of the source loop 1110.

[0232] In response to the controller 912 determining that the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 is set in the lockout mode, the method 1200 proceeds to block 1235 at which the controller 912 determines whether power for the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has been cycled since being set to the lockout mode. In response to the controller 912 determining that power for the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has not been cycled, the method 1200 remains at block 1235. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that power for the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has been cycled, the method 1200 proceeds to block 1240.

[0233] At block 1240, the controller 912 determines whether the water flowrate of the source loop 1110 has increased to be greater than the predefined flowrate threshold. In response to the controller 912 determining the water flowrate is not greater than the predefined threshold, the method 1200 remains at block 1240. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining the water flowrate is greater than the predefined predefined threshold, the method 1200 returns to block 1205.

[0234] Returning back to block 1230, in response to the controller 912 determining that the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 is not set in the lockout mode, the method 1200 proceeds to block 1250 at which the controller 912 monitors the water of the source loop 1110 and the refrigerant of the refrigerant circuit 650 for low temperatures.

[0235] FIG. 53C depicts a flowchart of an example method 1250 to perform the block 1250 of FIG. 53A for monitoring the temperature of fluids flowing through the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050. Initially, at block 1252, the controller 912 determines whether a temperature of the refrigerant is less than a first predefined temperature threshold. For example, the temperature sensor 502 is configured to measure the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant conduit 600 of refrigerant circuit 650 near the expansion valve 500. The controller 912 receives a signal from the temperature sensor 502 indicative of the measured temperature and compares the measured temperature to the first predefined threshold.

[0236] In response to the controller 912 determining that the temperature of the refrigerant is not less than the first predefined temperature threshold, the method 1250 proceeds to block 1254 at which the controller 912 enables the compressor 300 to be run. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that the temperature of the refrigerant is less than the first predefined temperature threshold, the method 1250 proceeds to block 1256. It should be understood that block 1252 may be performed at the same time as block 1256. Alternatively, block 1256 may be performed before block 1252.

[0237] At block 1256, the controller 912 determines whether a temperature of the water flowing through the source loop 1110 is less than a second predefined temperature threshold. For example, the temperature sensor 405 is configured to measure the temperature of the water flowing from the heat exchanger 400 within the source loop 1110. The controller 912 receives a signal from the temperature sensor 405 indicative of the measured temperature and compares the measured temperature to the second predefined threshold.

[0238] In response to the controller 912 determining that the temperature of the water is not less than the second predefined temperature threshold, the method 1250 proceeds to block 1254 at which the controller 912 enables the compressor 300 to be run. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that the temperature of the water is less than the second predefined temperature threshold, the method 1250 proceeds to block 1258 at which the controller 912 disables the compressor 300. At block 1260, the controller 912 sets the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 into the lockout mode.

[0239] While blocks 1252, 1256 are shown in a sequential manner in FIG. 53C, the controller 912 is configured to perform blocks 1252, 1256 simultaneously. For example, the controller 912 simultaneously checks whether (1) the temperature of the water flowing through the source loop 1110 is less than the second predefined temperature threshold and (2) the temperature of the refrigerant is less than the first predefined temperature threshold. If the controller 912 determines that both are simultaneously true, the controller 912 disables the compressor 300 at block 1258 and sets the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 in the lockout mode at block 1260. Otherwise, the controller 912 enables the compressor 300 to be run at block 1254.

[0240] Returning to FIG. 53A, the controller 912 determines, at block 1270, whether the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has been set in the lockout mode due to low fluid temperatures.

[0241] In response to the controller 912 determining that the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 is set in the lockout mode, the method 1200 proceeds to block 1280 at which the controller 912 determines whether power for the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has been cycled since being set to the lockout mode. In response to the controller 912 determining that power for the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has not been cycled, the method 1200 remains at block 1280. Otherwise, in response to the controller 912 determining that power for the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 has been cycled, the method 1200 returns to block 1205.

[0242] In response to the controller 912 determining that the heat pump system 5, the heat pump system 2050, or the heat pump system 3050 is set in the lockout mode, the method 1200 proceeds to block 1275 at which the controller 912 causes the compressor 300 to run to heat the space based on the signal received from the thermostat.

[0243] While specific embodiments have been described in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alternatives to those details could be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure herein is meant to be illustrative only and not limiting as to its scope and should be given the full breadth of the appended claims and any equivalents thereof.