Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

As global temperatures rise and energy demands intensify, innovative cooling solutions are critical for maintaining comfort in extreme climates. This study assesses the performance and energy efficiency of a variable-speed direct current (DC) air conditioning system in the extreme summer climate of Madinah, Saudi Arabia, during June, July, and August 2024. The experimental investigation analyzes key performance indicators, including cooling capacity, power consumption, ambient and indoor temperatures, and the coefficient of performance (COP). The system consistently maintained an average indoor temperature of approximately 24°C, ensuring thermal comfort despite outdoor temperatures exceeding 45°C. The cooling capacity peaked at 2261.4 W in July due to heightened cooling demand, resulting in a 3% increase in total energy consumption compared to June. The highest COP of 3.08 was recorded in June, followed by a moderate decline of 2.81 in July and a slight recovery of 2.91 in August, reflecting the system’s dynamic adaptation to environmental changes. The variable-speed operation enabled efficient performance under fluctuating conditions, making it well-suited for regions with extreme climates. The findings of this study lay the groundwork for optimizing DC air conditioning systems through enhanced insulation, advanced control strategies, and integration with sustainable energy solutions, thereby improving energy efficiency and promoting long-term sustainability.

Keywords: HVAC, DC air conditioning, energy efficiency, cooling technology