What Is Solar Air Conditioning?
Solar air conditioning is not something new. In fact, the United States has released the commercial prototypes since the 20th century. Solar powered air conditioners are also very popular in Asia where big technology manufacturing countries like Japan, Korea and China continue to make innovations on these machines.
Since Willis Carrier developed the air conditioning system, we have improved the level of comfort in our homes, cars and work places. Modern air conditioners allow us to make instant and easy transitions from warming to cooling by just pushing a button or sliding a bar or simply turning a knob. Throughout the years, the system underwent various innovations from the first ammonia-using air conditioner to what is now called a solar air conditioning system. With the discovery that the sun’s rays or energy can be converted into useful power, many people have invented devices that are solar-powered; from solar radios to solar battery chargers and now, solar air conditioning units.
Solar air conditioning pertains to any air conditioning unit that depends on the sun to run its system. The air conditioner will absorb, convert, and make use of the sun’s emitted energy. This can be possible through converting the sun’s energy to electrical energy such as passive solar, solar thermal energy conversion, and photovoltaic conversion. The solar air conditioner is a practically a useful appliance.
The solar air conditioning is very well suited in places where electricity is one of the most expensive commodities. Summer season can be both a blessing and a blow. It is often that we want to get away from the warm temperature of the season and just relax and chill at home. Due to this, a large portion of the summer electricity bills are spent on electric air conditioners alone. You can reverse the situation and save money instead by using solar air conditioners. Solar power is much stronger during summer days, so, by using solar air conditioners, you can turn the trouble into a double source of comfort. This equates to lesser bills; hence, more money savings.
Aside from that, using solar powered air conditioning units do not contribute to the greenhouse effect because it does not emit harmful gases. Unlike its electricity powered kin, solar air conditioners do not use harmful substances like Freon and some prototypes operate without moving any part at all. Unlike electrical air conditioners that use large amounts of power, solar air conditioners consume only a little amount because it has no “compressor”.
You can also make the most out of the panels (the flat, board-like devices that absorb the sun’s energy) by placing them on the roofs. You will not only give additional protection to the roof but you are keeping the house cooler by keeping the attic and the shingles from overheating.
Nowadays, the world is threatened by a devastating crisis; thus, it is always good to be practical while being wise. Solar powered devices nowadays are common since the sun’s energy is free and practically, a means to save money. Try using solar air conditioning systems; you will not only save more money but you will also be a green advocate!