With advancement in science and technology, solar power can now be used in a number of ways. One of the upcoming uses of solar energy is operating air conditioners. Though it sounds like a contradiction, a solar air conditioner works using the sun's energy to cool our homes. Such air conditioners have great application in arid areas where there is abundant sunlight. Air conditioning becomes a necessity in such areas and with bright sun as the source of energy, solar air conditioners are the perfect choice.
Types of Solar Air Conditioners
Solar air conditioners are either active or passive. Active solar air conditioners are of two types - solar absorption cooler and solar desiccant cooler.
In a solar absorption cooler, solar heat is absorbed by thermal collectors and this heat is used to separate a mixture of refrigerant and absorbent fluids. The refrigerant fluid is then condensed and evaporated. This process cools the air and this cold air is sent into the house. The absorbent fluid reabsorbs the refrigerant and the process is repeated.
In solar desiccant coolers, moist air passes over a "desiccant wheel" that contains moisture trapping materials. The moisture in the air is absorbed by these materials, making the air cool. Fans are then used to send this cold air out into the room. This type of solar coolers requires lesser temperatures than absorption coolers.
Passive solar air conditioning is usually designed along with the house, as it is inbuilt. It is usually built as a solar chimney or a solar cooling tower. A solar chimney is generally built on the south face of a house. Its south facing side is glazed so that it can effectively absorb the sun's heat. This chimney is connected to the inside of the house with the help of a vent at a high point on one side and at a low point on the other. The vents at the low point are then connected to large underground pipes.
When the air is heated up at chimney, it creates an upward draft which creates a vacuum. When this vacuum is created, air is drawn into the vent at the low point and as this air travels through the vent, the water pipes cool this air. Then the cool air is let in to the house for cooling. This cycle repeats itself providing a cool ambience.
Advantages of Using Solar Air Conditioners
It is an eco-friendly method, as no non-renewable energy sources are being depleted. It relies on solar energy, which is one of the most abundant sources of energy.
Solar air conditioners use only solar energy, air and water to cool the interiors of a house or building. As they do not emit green house gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, they do not add to the air pollution.
Apart from the low cost of setting up, it helps you cut down on your electricity bill. You also save on precious electrical energy. As it is not backed up by electrical power, it can be used anytime regardless of load shedding.
Solar air conditioners help save money as well as help in safe guarding the environment. They are as effective as any electric coolers and can be used for residential, commercial, industrial, governmental or military purposes. With all their financial and ecological advantages, they are a great air conditioning option for every place where sunlight is abundant.
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