Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards
(WELS) Scheme

Technical background research on evaporative air conditioners and feasibility of rating their water consumption

Background Research Project
Professor Wasim Saman, Dr. Frank Bruno and Ms. Ming Liu for the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
September 2009

PDF file

About the report

Many Australian now see the installation of mechanical air conditioning appliances as a normal requirement in their households. The continuing drought and high temperatures being experienced in many regions has led to an increased use of domestic air conditioning, creating a considerable impact on energy use and peak power demand. Evaporative air conditioners make up 20 per cent of installed systems in Australia and although they consume significantly less energy than refrigerated air conditioners, considerable amounts of water are required for their operation.

This report provides technical background information for the possible inclusion of evaporative air conditioners in the WELS Scheme with the aim of informing consumers on their water consumption. It describes current and future evaporative air conditioner designs, principle of operation and main components. It also includes available information on water consumption and provides calculations of amounts necessary for water evaporation in different Australian locations.

Background

In 2005, an independent analysis was carried out on potential products suitable for possible inclusion in an expanded WELS Scheme. A shortlist of products was agreed on by the Australian, state and territory governments and the National Water Commission, these include;

New or increased minimum water efficiency standards are also being considered for:

Research is underway to determine the feasibility and implications of expanding the scheme. Cost benefit analyses and regulation impact statements are being prepared and reports such as this one are being made available on this website for public comment once they are finalised.

Please email wels@environment.gov.au with any comments you would like to make in relation to the “Evaporative Air Conditioners – Technical Background Study.”

Cover of report - Technical background research on evaporative air conditioners and feasibility of rating their water consumption

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