Mirage Mini Splits - Geothermal Heat Pump or Air Conditioning?

Mirage Mini Splits - Geoexchange.

A geothermal heat pump or ground source heat pump (GSHP) is a central heating and/or cooling system that pumps heat to or from the ground. It uses the earth as a heat source (in the winter) or a heat sink (in the summer). This design takes advantage of the moderate temperatures in the ground to boost efficiency and reduce the operational costs of heating and cooling systems, and may be combined with solar heating to form a geosolar system with even greater efficiency. Ground source heat pumps are also known as "geothermal heat pumps" although, strictly, the heat does not come from the centre of the Earth, but from the Sun. They are also known by other names, including geoexchange, earth-coupled, earth energy systems. 

 

The engineering and scientific communities prefer the terms "geoexchange" or "ground source heat pumps" to avoid confusion with traditional geothermal power, which uses a high temperature heat source to generate electricity. Ground source heat pumps harvest heat absorbed at the Earth's surface from solar energy. The temperature in the ground below 6 metres (20 ft) is roughly equal to the mean annual air temperature at that latitude at the surface.

Mirage Air Conditioners - The Core of the Heat Pump.

Depending on latitude, the temperature beneath the upper 6 metres (20 ft) of Earth's surface maintains a nearly constant temperature between 50 and 60 °F, if the temperature is undisturbed by the presence of a heat pump. Like a refrigerator or air conditioner, these systems use a heat pump to force the transfer of heat from the ground. Heat pumps can transfer heat from a cool space to a warm space, against the natural direction of flow, or they can enhance the natural flow of heat from a warm area to a cool one. The core of the heat pump is a loop of refrigerant pumped through a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle that moves heat. 

 

Air-source heat pumps are typically more efficient at heating than pure electric heaters, even when extracting heat from cold winter air, although efficiencies begin dropping significantly as outside air temperatures drop below  41 °F. A ground source heat pump exchanges heat with the ground. This is much more energy-efficient because underground temperatures are more stable than air temperatures through the year. Seasonal variations drop off with depth and disappear below 7 metres (23 ft) due to thermal inertia. Like a cave, the shallow ground temperature is warmer than the air above during the winter and cooler than the air in the summer. 

Mirage HVAC - High Coefficient of Performance (COP)

A ground source heat pump extracts ground heat in the winter (for heating) and transfers heat back into the ground in the summer (for cooling). Some systems are designed to operate in one mode only, heating or cooling, depending on climate.

 

The geothermal pump systems reach fairly high Coefficient of performance (CoP), 3-6, on the coldest of winter nights, compared to 1.75-2.5 for air-source heat pumps on cool days.  Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are among the most energy efficient technologies for providing HVAC and water heating. Actual CoP of a geothermal system which includes the power required to circulate the fluid through the underground tubes can be lower than 2.5. The setup costs are higher than for conventional systems, but the difference is usually returned in energy savings in 3 to 10 years. System life is estimated at 25 years for inside components and 50+ years for the ground loop. As of 2004, there are over a million units installed worldwide providing 12 GW of thermal capacity, with an annual growth rate of 10%.

Mirage Ductless -History.

The heat pump was described by Lord Kelvin in 1853 and developed by Peter Ritter von Rittinger in 1855. After experimenting with a freezer, Robert C. Webber built the first direct exchange ground-source heat pump in the late 1940s. The first successful commercial project was installed in the Commonwealth Building (Portland, Oregon) in 1946, and has been designated a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark by ASME. The technology became popular in Sweden in the 1970s, and has been growing slowly in worldwide acceptance since then. Open loop systems dominated the market until the development of polybutylene pipe in 1979 made closed loop systems economically viable.  As of 2004, there are over a million units installed worldwide providing 12 GW of thermal capacity. Each year, about 80,000 units are installed in the US (geothermal energy is used in all 50 US states today, with great potential for near-term market growth and savings)  and 27,000 in Sweden.

 

Split AC Unit. Free Cooling in HVAC and Methods of Free Cooling.

Split AC Unit - Strainer Cycle.

Free cooling is an economical method of using low external air temperatures to assist in chilling water, which can then be used for industrial process, or air conditioning systems. In HVAC in winter months, large commercial buildings’ interior spaces may need cooling, even while perimeter spaces may need heating. Free cooling is the production of chilled water without the use of a chiller, and can be used generally in the late fall, winter and early spring, in the Northern Hemisphere. Free cooling is not entirely free since the chiller is still operational. Assuming that the system can utilize free cooling, there are three ways to use free cooling:

 

The cooling tower water can be directly linked into the flow through the chilled water circuit. If the cooling tower is open then a strainer is required to eliminate any debris that could accumulate within the tower. The cost savings are associated with the limited use of the water chiller energy There is an increased risk of corrosion using this method.

SEER Rating - Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger.

 A heat exchanger, will transfer heat directly from the chilled water loop to the cooling tower loop. The exchanger keeps the cooling tower water separate from the coolant flowing through the cooling coils. The chiller water is thus pre-cooled. An energy savings is due reduced chiller loading and thus a reduction in energy consumption. There is an increase in cost due to the pump need to compensate for the pressure differences.

Window AC Unit - Refrigeration Migration.

A valve arrangement within the water chiller opens a direct path between the condenser and the evaporator. The relatively warm fluid in the chiller loop vaporizes the refrigerant, and the energy is carried directly to the condenser, where it is cooled and condensed by the water from the cooling tower. This method is driven by the idea that the refrigerant tends to move towards the coldest point in a refrigeration circuit. The cost savings associated with this method are due to the compressor’s inactivity, since the blower, fans, and pumps are all operational.

India Unit - Limitations.

Freezing can be difficult to avoid once the cooling tower water temperature gets below 39.02 F. Another limitation is the temperature difference across the heat exchanger. A heat exchanger that has a very low temperature difference across can become economically unrealistic. The economics of the heat exchanger allow for a minimum free cooling water temperature of about 41 ⁰F.

Senville Mitsubishi Split System - What is Split AC?

Senville Mitsubishi Split System - Inside and Outside the Building.

A split air conditioning unit is one that has the two main components separate from each other, with one being inside the building, and the other being outside. A central air conditioning unit is nearly always a split air conditioning unit. There are also air conditioning units called mini split air conditioners. These units operate in a very similar way, but do not use ducts to send the air. These may provide single room air conditioning, or cooling for multiple rooms, and are often called ductless air conditioning units.

Split System Air Conditioner - Different Functions.

The two main components of a split air conditioning system have different functions. The unit situated outdoors, called a compressor, cools the air and handles condensation. This saves the trouble of having to find a way to drain the water created from the air conditioning process indoors. The inside unit, called the blower, is responsible for distributing the air to the rest of the house. This is done through a forced-air system, usually using a fan and a series of ducts that distribute cool air to each room in the home with a vent. An intake vent will return air to the unit.

Mitsubishi Mr Slim - Connected by two Lines.

A miniature system works by installing an air handling piece in the room of choice. Two lines are then connected to an outside unit. While this will require drilling through an outside wall, it will not require the cutting needed for air conditioning units with ducts. One line will deliver coolant to the inside component. The other line will take away condensation. For those who need multiple rooms cooled, several inside components can be installed to one outdoor component.

Mitsubishi Split System Reviews - Capable Unit.

No matter which type of split air conditioning unit is chosen, it is important to make sure you are choosing a unit that is capable of handling the needs of your home. For those who need replacement units, if the other unit worked adequately, buying one of similar capacity is all you need to do. There are also online calculators to help homeowners choose the right unit. Units that are too powerful will cut on and off too much, thus possibly leading to humidity problems. Units not powerful enough will always be on, and run the risk of burning out, or at least using more electricity than they need to.

Aircon Split Type Air Conditioner. Inverter Air Conditioner.

Aircon Split Type Air Conditioner. What is the System Inverter?

The inverter technology adapts the speed of the compressor to the needs of the moment, allowing only the energy consumed. This will drastically reduce temperature swings, keep getting in the range from +1 ° C and -1 ° C and enjoy greater environmental stability and comfort.

Thanks to a variable power supply responsive to temperature changes, computers vary Inverter compressor motor speed to provide the demanded power. And so when they are about to reach the desired temperature, the lower the power equipment to avoid peak compressor starting. This will reduce the noise and power consumption is always proportional. Inverter system allows the compressor to work 30% above its power to achieve the desired temperature faster and, secondly, it may work up to 15% below its power. Again, this translates into a significant reduction in both noise and consumption.

Split Type Air Conditioning System. Faster Cooling.

No Inverter: For colder days without an air conditioner inverter function heats the room not quite right. 



With Inverter: To produce 60% more heat than constant speed models, inverter air conditioners heat a room quickly even on the coldest days. Therefore, the performance is significantly superior inverter technology. 



The compressor. 

No Inverter: The compressor runs at the same speed all the time, so it takes longer to heat or cool the room and achieve a comfortable temperature. 



With Inverter: The compressor runs at a speed approximately twice as fast until it reaches the right temperature, so heating and cooling are faster. 

Sanyo Split Type Air Conditioner. Efficient Use of Power.

No Inverter: The compressor is switched on and off according to changes in room temperature. In other words, the temperature always fluctuates. 



With Inverter: comprasor velocity and therefore the output power is adapted to room temperature. This linear efficient regulation and temperature maintained at all times a pleasant room.

Fujitsu Split Type Air Conditioner. Low Power Consumption.

No Inverter: An inverter air conditioner without function consumes about twice as much electricity. With this difference, does not take long to get high bills. 



With Inverter: An inverter air conditioner consumes half the electricity that a model without inverter function, so you get more welfare for much less money. Best Inverter air conditioning machines. Toshiba, Klimaire

Ductless Minisplit - Common Pollutants and HVAC!

Ductless Minisplit - Second-Hand Smoke.

Second-hand smoke is tobacco smoke which affects other people other than the 'active' smoker. Second-hand tobacco smoke includes both a gaseous and a particulate phase, with particular hazards arising from levels of carbon monoxide (as indicated below) and very small particulates (at PM2.5 size) which get past the lung's natural defences. The only certain method to improve indoor air quality as regards second-hand smoke is the implementation of comprehensive smoke-free laws.

Ductless Mini Split System - Radon.

Radon is an invisible, radioactive atomic gas that results from the radioactive decay of radium, which may be found in rock formations beneath buildings or in certain building materials themselves. Radon is probably the most pervasive serious hazard for indoor air in the United States and Europe, probably responsible for tens of thousands of deaths from lung cancer each year.There are relatively simple tests for radon gas, but these tests are not commonly made available, even in areas of known systematic hazards. Radon is a heavy gas and thus will tend to accumulate at the floor level. 

 

Building materials can actually be a significant source of radon, but little testing is carried out for stone, rock or tile products brought into building sites; radon accumulation is greatest for well insulated homes.[3] The half life for radon is 3.8 days, indicating that once the source is removed, the hazard will be greatly reduced within a few weeks. Radon mitigation methods include sealing concrete slab floors, basement foundations, water drainage systems, or by increasing ventilation.They are usually cost effective and can greatly reduce or even eliminate the contamination and the associated health risks.

Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump - Molds and Other Allergens.

Mold health issues, Mold growth, assessment, and remediation. These biological chemicals can arise from a host of means, but there are two common classes: (a) moisture induced growth of mold colonies and (b) natural substances released into the air such as animal dander and plant pollen. Moisture buildup inside buildings may arise from water penetrating compromised areas of the building envelope or skin, from plumbing leaks, from condensation due to improper ventilation, or from ground moisture penetrating a building part. In areas where cellulosic materials (paper and wood, including drywall) become moist and fail to dry within 48 hours, mold mildew can propagate and release allergenic spores into the air.

 

In many cases, if materials have failed to dry out several days after the suspected water event, mold growth is suspected within wall cavities even if it is not immediately visible. Through a mold investigation, which may include destructive inspection, one should be able to determine the presence or absence of mold. In a situation where there is visible mold and the indoor air quality may have been compromised, mold remediation may be needed. Mold testing and inspections should be carried out by an independent investigator to avoid any conflict of interest and to insure accurate results; free mold testing offered by remediation companies is not recommended.

 

There are some varieties of mold that contain toxic compounds (mycotoxins). 

However, exposure to hazardous levels of mycotoxin via inhalation is not possible in most cases, as toxins are produced by the fungal body and are not at significant levels in the released spores. The primary hazard of mold growth, as it relates to indoor air quality, comes from the allergenic properties of the spore cell wall. More serious than most allergenic properties is the ability of mold to trigger episodes in persons that already have asthma, a serious respiratory disease. Mold is always associated with moisture  and its growth can be inhibited by keeping humidity levels below 50%. Moisture problems causing mold growth can be direct such as a water leaks and/or indirect such as condensation due to humidity levels.

Fujitsu Ductless Mini Split - Carbon Monoxide.

One of the most acutely toxic indoor air contaminants is carbon monoxide (CO), a colourless, odourless gas that is a byproduct of incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Common sources of carbon monoxide are tobacco smoke, space heaters using fossil fuels, defective central heating furnaces and automobile exhaust. Improvements in indoor levels of CO are systematically improving from increasing implementation of smoke-free laws. By depriving the brain of oxygen, high levels of carbon monoxide can lead to nausea, unconsciousness and death. According to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), the time-weighted average (TWA) limit for carbon monoxide (630-08-0) is 25 ppm.

Install Split Unit AC. Air Conditioning Specialist.

Install Split Unit AC. Professional Certification.

To become an air conditioning specialist, you will typically need to complete both classroom and on-the-job training in working with air conditioning systems and units. In some jurisdictions, you may be required by law to hold a government-issued trade license before practicing. Other areas may require or strongly encourage you to obtain professional certification as an air conditioning specialist before you can begin your career. Depending on where you live, you may be required to obtain training, certification, or licensure in a more general field, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) before you can become an air conditioning specialist. Training is available through vocational schools, the military, or apprenticeship programs.

How to Install Split Air Conditioner?. Restrictions.

Due to health and safety concerns, many jurisdictions place restrictions on those who want to work with air conditioning systems. These restrictions typically require an individual to obtain some type of contracting or trade license before being allowed to practice as an air conditioning specialist. Contact the government agency in your area that regulates trades and professions to find out what the requirements are for licensing. If you live in an area that does not require licensing, you should seek out professional certification through a respected trade organization. Ask about your training alternatives. 

How to Install Split AC? Vocational School.

You may be able to enroll in a vocational school, or there may be an apprenticeship program that you can apply to. Other jurisdictions will only ask you to show proof of several years of on-the-job experience, so you may be able to begin your quest to become an air conditioning specialist by applying for a job with an air conditioning installation and repair firm.

How to Install a Split Rail Fence? Stricter Standards.

If you live in an area that enforces stricter standards for those who wish to become an air conditioning specialist, you can expect to spend several years studying and working in the field before you can obtain your professional license. After you complete your education and training, you will typically have to sit for a licensing exam that will cover the various areas of air conditioning installation and repair that you have learned over the years. After completing the exam and your education, you will be able to apply for your license. Some areas may also require you to post a bond, demonstrate financial stability by showing that you have a certain amount of money in the bank, or require you to purchase an insurance policy for your business before you can be fully licensed as an air conditioning specialist.

 

Split Gree Air Conditioners - Displacement Ventilation.

Split Gree Air Conditioners. Large High Spaces. 

Displacement ventilation systems supply air directly to the occupied zone. The air is supplied at low velocities to cause minimal induction and mixing. This system is used for ventilation and cooling of large high spaces, such as auditoria and atria, where energy may be saved if only the occupied zone is treated rather than trying to control the conditions in the entire space.

Split Gree Ar Condicionado. Improve the Thermal Comfort and Indoor Air Quality.

Displacement room airflow presents an opportunity to improve both the thermal comfort and indoor air quality (IAQ) of the occupied space. It also takes advantage of the difference in air density between an upper contaminated zone and a lower clean zone. Cool air is supplied at low velocity into the lower zone. Convection from heat sources creates vertical air motion into the upper zone where high level return inlets extract the air. In most cases these convection heat sources are also the contamination sources (e.g., people, equipment, or processes), thereby carrying the contaminants up to the upper zone, away from the occupants.

Split Gree Cooling. Displacement Outlets. 

The displacement outlets are usually located at or near the floor with the air supply designed so the air flows smoothly across the floor. Where there is a heat source (such as people, lighting, computers, electrical equipment, etc.) the air will rise, pulling the cool supply air up with it and moving contaminants and heat from the occupied zone to the return or exhaust grilles above. By doing so, the air quality in the occupied zone is generally superior to that achieved with mixing room air distribution.

Split Gree. Supply Air Temperatures.

Since the conditioned air is supplied directly into the occupied space, supply air temperatures must be higher than mixing systems (usually above 63 °F ) to avoid cold draughts at the floor. By introducing the air at supply air temperatures close to the room temperature and low outlet velocity a high level of thermal comfort can be provided with displacement ventilation.