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Another low-power option for cooling that Little uses is an evaporative cooler, which is a water basin and fan that blows evaporated water vapor. These systems, which have been installed in the Middle East, generally work well in lower humidity areas, but the SolCool system could work "just about anywhere," he said.
Other companies and some researchers also tout a system in which ice is created at night and stored in an underground tank. The vapor then wafts off in the daytime to cool a building.
The company is looking to sign on distributors who are either experts in air conditioning or are renewable energy installers looking to distribute new products.
The back-up power feature is compelling for off-grid applications or when people need to keep cool in their home during a power outage for health reasons, Little said.
"You don't (worry about) a return on investment, if you have to have oxygen," he said.
The price of the units will be between $2,600 and $3,000 before installation, which could run another $500, Pruitt estimated.
That's substantially more than a standard air conditioner, but Pruitt said the energy savings can help pay for the unit, particularly in areas like California with high heat and steep electricity fees. The product is also eligible for state-run rebate programs that promote energy-efficient products, he added.
"This is our fifth year doing it. When we started, it was hard because nobody wanted to be the first to try it," Pruitt said. "But in the last year, I think consumers are coming around to it."
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air conditioner, solar energy, renewable energy, photovoltaics, sun
We can then use the electricity from solar for other things. The way things are being marketed right now is that they are pricing the system like this one so that whatever money you will save is equal to the mark-up price. I hope it would go much lower than that, like at par or slightly higher with current air-conditioning systems, then that would truly help us all, including the planet.
thanks.
What is the best type of solar solution for mainly cooling, then lighting and then small appliances. I am also open to wind farms and hydro/wave farms.
Going for efficiency and this ac unit is attractive but as you pointed out has its limitations and CONS.
- by anil_bharti August 29, 2009 1:52 AM PDT
- People will buy anything....
- Like this Reply to this comment
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(9 Comments)by timinraymond July 16, 2007 11:20 AM PDT
You are absolutely right, but ammonia vapor absorption system is quite toxic and dangerous for homes unless you install scrubber along with it. Let them do the experiment. Necessity is mother of invention! One day it will be possible.
Lets makes things better... just help them!