A High Efficiency Ventilation Air Conditioner for Residences

72716S03-I Air conditioners now on the market are very poor at controlling indoor humidity. In some buildings, high indoor humidity creates health problems and leads to the growth of mold and mildew; in other buildings, energy is wasted as the building owner overcools the indoor space to try to create comfortable conditions. A high efficiency air conditioner that also provided superior dehumidification could restore healthy indoor conditions while significantly reducing energy use. This project will incorporate advanced liquid-desiccant technology into an electric vapor-compression air conditioner that (1) provides more than twice the dehumidification of a conventional system, (2) reduces compressor power by 15% or more, and (3) is easy to install on a residence. Phase I will build a breadboard model, measure its performance in the lab, install the model on a home, determine its impact on indoor comfort, and measure its energy use. Computer simulations of the new air conditioner will be performed to help identify the indoor air quality benefits and energy savings that may be achieved. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: A highly efficient electric air conditioner that provides cool and dry fresh air to homes, even under humid summer conditions, would address problems of poor indoor air quality, mold and mildew growth, and uncomfortable humidity. The technology also could evolve into a larger, high efficiency air conditioner that would significantly reduce national energy use and emissions from fossil fuels.