Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

Air conditioning systems are critical for thermal comfort in extreme climates but pose significant energy challenges, particularly in hot, arid regions like Madinah, Saudi Arabia. This study evaluates the energy efficiency and cooling performance of a conventional air conditioning (AC) system during the peak summer months of June, July, and August 2024. Experimental tests under controlled conditions measured key parameters, including cooling capacity, power consumption, indoor and ambient temperatures, and the coefficient of performance (COP). The system maintained thermal comfort, achieving room temperatures near 24°C despite ambient temperatures exceeding 40°C. The highest COP of 2.39 was recorded in June under moderate cooling loads, while cooling capacity peaked at 2580.4 W in July due to elevated ambient temperatures. However, the thermostat-driven on-off control strategy led to inefficiencies, including frequent compressor cycling and increased energy consumption during start-ups. Energy consumption rose 28% in July compared to June, with total heat absorbed growing by 16%, reflecting higher cooling demands. To validate and extend the findings, TRNSYS simulations were conducted using the same system specifications and climate conditions. The results closely matched the experimental data in terms of temperature profiles, energy use, and COP trends, confirming TRNSYS as a reliable modeling tool for seasonal performance assessment. These insights highlight the limitations of conventional AC systems in extreme climates and support the adoption of variable-speed compressors to enhance efficiency, reduce energy use, and meet sustainability goals. This work contributes to optimizing cooling strategies in hot regions and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Keywords: air conditioning, energy efficiency, cooling performance and TRNSYS validation