Open Source Heat Pump BOM
Open Heat Pump Module v1.0
This page documents an open-hardware heat pump module built from off-the-shelf HVAC parts. Design target: reversible ~2-ton (≈24,000 BTU/h) R-410A heat pump, suitable for air-to-water integration.
Goal
Create a modular, serviceable, repairable heat pump core using standardized refrigeration components easily sourced worldwide.
System Overview
Each module consists of:
- 2-ton R410A scroll compressor
- 4-way reversing valve
- Brazed plate refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger
- Expansion device (TXV or EEV)
- Filter/drier, accumulator, service valves
- Simple, open controls
Four modules ≈ 96,000 BTU/h.
Bill of Materials (per 2-ton module)
Compressor (2-Ton R-410A Scroll)
Primary: https://hdsupplysolutions.com/p/copeland-2-ton-r-410a-scroll-compressor-p252077 Alternative: https://www.ferguson.com/product/goodman-r-410a-208230v-single-phase-scroll-compressor-g50n6229vzakms/7347425 Budget surplus option: https://surpluscityliquidators.com/products/212-ton-achp-scroll-compressor-208230601-r410a-3?variant=41932566036525 eBay example (for cost discovery): https://www.ebay.com/itm/286682581692
Typical ratings: 2 ton capacity, R410A, ~208/230V single-phase, scroll type.
Reversing Valve (4-Way, Heat Pump)
Ranco V2-408060-170: https://www.supplyhouse.com/Ranco-V2-408060-170-1-2-x-3-8-Heat-Pump-Reversing-Valve-style-1 Budget Daikin compatible: https://www.partswarehouse.com/Daikin-Reversing-Valve-2Ton-R22-R410A-DAI-910198406-p/DAI-910198406.htm Alternative source: https://www.gsistore.com/products/ranco-v2-408060-270-reversing-valve Low-cost generic option: https://www.wilspecdirect.com/products/reversing-valve-2-ton
Typical line sizes: Suction ~ 3/4" Liquid ~ 3/8–1/2"
Refrigerant-to-Water Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger
(acts as condenser in heating mode / evaporator in cooling mode)
Bell & Gossett brazed plate heat exchangers: https://www.nationalpumpsupply.com/bell-gossett-brazed-plate-heat-exchangers/
General R410A plate HX listings: https://www.alibaba.com/showroom/r410a-brazed-plate-heat-exchanger.html Westermeyer / industrial quality: https://westermeyerind.com/products/heat-exchange/brazed-plate/
Requirements: Must be rated for R410A refrigerant pressure (typically 450-650 psi working). Water side stainless (316) preferred.
Other Refrigeration Components (standard HVAC)
Obtain from any HVAC wholesaler (Johnstone, Ferguson, SupplyHouse, etc):
- 2–3 ton R410A TXV (or EEV)
- Bi-flow R410A filter-drier
- Suction accumulator
- Service valves
- Schrader access ports
- Sight glass (optional)
- Copper lines and fittings
Hydronic Integration
(not included in refrigeration stack)
- Circulator pump
- Water manifold + PEX / copper
- Thermal storage tank(s) / IBC tote integration
- Fan coils OR radiant loops on load side
Refrigerant Circuit (Simplified)
Compressor discharge → reversing valve → Either outdoor air coil OR brazed plate HX → Liquid line with TXV/EEV → Evaporator (whichever is opposite role) → Suction accumulator → Compressor suction.
Use bi-flow filter/drier and appropriate check valves.
Line Sizes
Typical for 2 ton R410A: Suction: ~3/4" Liquid: ~1/2" Match compressor + valve ratings.
Controls
Sensors:
- Water in/out temperature
- Optional refrigerant suction/discharge pressure
Actuators:
- Compressor contactor
- Reversing valve solenoid
- Water pump relay
- Outdoor fan relay (if used)
Controller may be: PLC / ESP32 / relay logic.
Safety
All refrigerant work must be done by qualified personnel. Pressure test, evacuate, charge properly. Use components specifically rated for R-410A.
Open Hardware Intent
This design:
- Avoids proprietary sealed systems
- Uses catalog components
- Enables decades of maintainable operation
- Supports local fabrication and repair economy
- Serves as a building block for open thermal infrastructure