A major problem troubling the world as of late, is the changing environment and global warming. We as a responsible human race feel the need to contribute to solving this issue. Almost everyone is ‘going green’ as much as possible these days. Thus, it comes as no surprise that various companies offering heating and cooling systems are doing their part, by implementing green technologies. Here are 7 technologies that are changing how these heating and cooling systems work-
1. Solar Power
The main source of heat on the earth’s surface, is the massive sun. Harnessing the sun’s power is one way to power up these systems. Solar power is of two types- active and passive. Passive solar power is used directly, where the sunlight passes through windows which convert this light to thermal energy, keeping the house warm. Alternatively, pipes with coolants can be used, which trap heat, and this liquid is pumped throughout areas of the house in pipes running all around.
Active solar power is a method of harnessing the sun’s power with the use of solar cells. These photovoltaic cells convert solar energy to electrical energy, which can further be used to power electrical heaters.
2. Geo Thermal Energy
In areas with not much sun throughout the year, the use of Geo Thermal power is gaining popularity. The earth’s core has plentiful amount of heat, and because of this, the temperature close to the earth’s surface (a few feet below it) is relatively constant throughout the year. This keeps the house warm during winters and cold during summers- which is done with the help of geothermal pumps (for air and water).
3. Thermal Air Conditioning
To remove heat from the environment, there is usually a refrigerant and electricity required. In this case, these systems make use of the process of evaporating liquids such as water at low pressures. They are energy efficient, friendly for the environment and are a great alternative to the ordinary air conditioners. This thermal energy for heating can come from either solar power, or other waste heat resources.
4. Biomass Fuel
Using wood and plant products as fuel for burning is another green way for systems to provide heating and cooling. They are a great alternative to fossil fuels as they contribute only as much carbon as the plant does when it dies. It’s carbon footprint is extremely low, just like campfires with wood. Heating bills reduce by 50%, and they are more environment friendly than natural gas. Most companies, schools and offices are slowly switching to this cheaper, better use of energy.
5. Hydronic Heat
Hydronic heat is the oldest form of heating which still continues to today. Although there are more advanced forms these days, the basic idea still remains. They use liquid such as antifreeze, which is pumped throughout a radiator’s plastic tubing. Heat is transferred in three ways, conduction, convection and radiation. These three forms keep the house warm or cool in all the possible ways heat can transfer.
6. Bio Diesel
This renewable fuel is not just for trucks or tractors anymore! Earlier, since oil used to be cheaper, it was obviously the popular choice. Now with its prices rising, and it becoming scarcer, people are changing over to bio diesel which is more available and multiple times cheaper. These release lesser pollutants, even lesser amount of greenhouse gases. Since they are produced from plants like wheat and soya beans, they do not contribute to much carbon.
7. Ice
Ice is the most effective and most green way of using the heating or cooling system. The preexisting HVAC unit system can be converted to thermal energy storage system using ice powered air conditioning. These conditioners make ice during the night, which is used to cool the refrigerant during the day time. It incorporates the use of copper coils to make it all work effectively.