Scientists at the Central University of Jharkhand in India have modeled a system that would be useful for the many people in India without air conditioning and heating. The system cools or heats air using the ground. A blower draws outside air and blows it through PVC pipes buried 2-3 meters (7 to 10 feet) in the ground and then into the home. The ground cools hot air and heats cold air. The system can be powered by solar panels on the roof.
The ground is an excellent source of heating or cooling because several meters down the temperatures are moderate and constant. Hot air can be cooled and partially dehumidified by the system making inside temperatures more bearable. The PVC pipes are tilted slightly so that condensate drains away. The photovoltaic system has a battery so the system can run at night.
Modeling suggests several thousand kWh’s of energy can be saved per year with these systems. That is important in India where electricity is not as available in rural areas and temperatures in the summer can exceed 40°C (104°F). These systems are a cool idea for a hot climate! – Steve Terry, DTC HVAC & Refrigeration Instructor
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