Heat and humidity are the main factors affecting our daily lifestyle. For beating the heat, technology has paved the way through air conditioners. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is a system to eradicate moisturised and warm air from our homes and generate a cool and fresh atmosphere.
Air conditioning is widely used for creating a cool and pleasant ambience. According to the facts, 8%-10% of the Indian population uses air conditioners. From demystifying myths about air conditioning to constantly upgrading to new air conditioning options, AC is now becoming a necessity more than a luxury. A study report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) suggests that by 2050 almost 50% of the Indian population will be operating ACs.
Let’s have a glance at the types of air conditioning systems:
- Central Air Conditioning Systems: Central air conditioning systems require a large space and cool several rooms simultaneously. They are considered to be one of the costliest air conditioning systems.
- Ductless Mini-split ACs: These ACs have an outdoor unit and compressor. The indoor unit is generally used for cooling or heating. It is one of the energy-saving appliances to be used.
- Portable ACs: Portable ACs are standalone systems with wheels at the bottom. It is mostly used for small spaces.
- Floor-Mounted AC: The floor-mounted ACs are used in buildings with sloping walls. It comes with an indoor unit that should be installed at the base of the wall, close to the floor.
- Smart ACs: Smart ACs have Wi-Fi embedded features that allow control of the AC through mobile devices or tablets.
- Geothermal Air Conditioning Systems: These air conditioners rely on the earth’s natural insulating abilities. It uses less energy as compared to other air conditioners.
The technology is spreading its wings and bringing advanced features for air conditioning. Here are the expected innovations you might witness shortly:
- Sustainable Cooling Technologies: We all know that air conditioners harm the environment. Cooling agents like Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) cause ozone depletion. Thus, technology is bringing ahead eco-friendly cooling solutions like:
- Renewable Energy sources: Solar panels and wind turbines are used by homes and businesses to power their cooling systems.
- Energy-Efficient Cooling Systems: To provide better efficiency and comfort, technology has introduced two systems, Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) and Chilled Beam systems.
- Smart Cooling Systems: The Internet of Things (IoT) will have smart sensors to set precise temperatures, optimise energy usage, and enhance user experience. With AI on the rise, technology is bringing forth predictive analytics.
- UV-C Light Air Purification Technology: This cooling technology will disinfect the air.
- Magnetic Cooling: This technology will use magnetic fields to achieve cooling without refrigerants.
- Thermoacoustic Cooling: This technology uses sound waves to create compression and expansion of the gas, to generate eco-friendly cooling solutions.
There are various forthcoming technological advancements for better cooling solutions. These innovations will be more energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
