A/C Powermizer
A/C Powermizer
(OP)
I have run across a device that claims to lower a/c cost by reducing the run time of the compressor so the air conditioner reaches max cooling temp with minimum energy usage. It does so by sensing the temp of the air off the evap coils and then turning off the compressor when certain conditions are met. The literature claims that compressors run most efficiently when fully loaded so upon start up the density of the gas is at its highest. The theory is to cool mostly in this condition. Has anyone done any analysis on these types of products. Thanks for any help.





RE: A/C Powermizer
RE: A/C Powermizer
RE: A/C Powermizer
At the same time, most processes or interior space conditions won't permit the variances associated with flywheeling in a fashion like this...And they don't represent a large enough thermal inertia to avoid the short cycling indicated if try to maintain a narrow band of space conditions...
The systems that do tolerate this style of control have large thermal capacitances....Effectively they are inherent large flywheels.
The brine system in an ice rink contains some 8000 gallons of thermofluid and the chiller will operate in this fashion...
Similarly with some large vats where such materials as orange juice or liquid yeast are stored.
For anything like AC duty, you will end up with a pretty large sump or a pretty large silo and the losses to ambient and the control for Frost Conditions might make it all very clumsy.
RE: A/C Powermizer
RE: A/C Powermizer
Sounds like the same exact thing a normal tstat does, sensors is just in a different place.
Sounds like this thing is made my Articmaster.
Clyde
RE: A/C Powermizer
RE: A/C Powermizer
One other note just FYI: the same exact motor running for 3 hours vs. 2 hours may use less power than the one running for 2 hours if it is more closely matched with the load. Of course, the larger the motor then the more significant the savings. Granted, the frequency of this happening is probably not very often but is entirely possible. Also, it would depend on if your getting billed for only watts or if VAR's are also being billed (pf penalties and the like).
RE: A/C Powermizer
I'll think about this and get back with everyone if I come up with anything.
RE: A/C Powermizer
RE: A/C Powermizer
Switching compressor motors etc like this is not advisable. Try inverter drives or more refined control mechanisms rather than simply switching on/off
Friar Tuck of Sherwood
RE: A/C Powermizer
Seeking increases in energy efficiency alone, while ignoring the necessary and intended function of the system may result in a system that fails to perform its necessary and intended function.
Thus far, the laws of thermodynamics have proved to be inviolable.