This paper evaluates the technical and economic performance of an experimental building-integrated earth–air heat exchanger (EAHE) system in arid regions during winter. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can account for up to half of a building’s energy consumption, making them a critical focus for energy conservation. The EAHE system was tested for its ability to maintain indoor temperature and humidity levels using geothermal energy. The EAHE system maintained indoor temperatures of 10°C–20°C and humidity of 30%–50%, with US$2120 construction cost and rising maintenance expenses, offering significant energy savings as a viable HVAC alternative despite the high initial investment.
Sakhri, N., Kifouche, A., Kaddour, A., Chenini, N., Larguech, S., Chambashi, G., Kaid, N., Menni, Y. (2025). Thermal and economic performance of an earth–air heat exchanger system for indoor climate control in arid winter environments, International Journal of Low-Carbon Technologies, Volume 20, 2025, Pages 855–864, https://doi.org/10.1093/ijlct/ctaf046