Optimizing Earth-Air Heat Exchangers for Sustainable Summer Cooling and Winter Heating

Abstract

This study utilized a full factorial design with three factors at two levels each: thermal conductivity, pipe length, and air velocity. We aimed to identify optimal EAHE configurations for both summer cooling (maximum air temperature reduction) and winter heating (maximum temperature increase). Distinct optimal conditions emerged for each season. For summer cooling and winter heating, optimal configurations involved high thermal conductivity, moderate pipe length, and minimal air velocity. Statistical analysis revealed pipe length as the most influential factor on temperature in both seasons, explaining over 59% of the variability in winter and 49.43% in summer. Air velocity exerted a significant impact, while thermal conductivity had a smaller but still important influence. These findings showcase the effectiveness of full factorial design in unraveling complex interactions and pinpointing key parameters for EAHE optimization.