Energy analysis of conventional and inverter conditioners in housing not adapted to the climate

Abstract

The energy consumption of air conditioners in buildings in hot and humid regions is relevant, especially in those not adapted to the climate. This study aimed to compare the consumption and performance of split inverter and conventional split air conditioners. The analysis was performed through thermo-energetic simulations, using the ©Energy Plus program and the application, ©Open Studio. Operating conditions and technical characteristics of the systems were based on the NBR 16555 standard. A real social interest housing was considered as a reference model, based on parameters of use and occupation of the Technical Quality Regulation for the level of energy efficiency (RTQ-R) . The virtual model of the building and the operational behavior of the air conditioning systems were obtained through performance curves. It was concluded that the use of inverter-type conditioners in homes not adapted to the climate, object of this research, proved to be efficient when compared to conventional conditioners. It is assumed that the replacement of conventional split equipment by split inverter can reduce electricity consumption by up to 41% per year, considering current energy efficiency levels. Inverter-type conditioners manage to minimize the consumption of electricity, which would hypothetically make the use of more efficient equipment accessible to less favored classes.