Water and Carbon Footprint for Different Technologies of HVAC Systems (Vapor Compression and Gas Absorption)

Abdelhamid, A.Q.; Abdel-Basier, A.M.; Zakaria, M.K.; Abdelhalim, H.A.

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2025.340946.10924

Water and Carbon Footprint for Different Technologies of HVAC Systems (Vapor Compression and Gas Absorption)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Engineering Science -Graduate School of Environmental Studies and Research- Ain Shams University,Cairo

² Environmental Science Department, Faculty of Graduate Studies and Environmental Research, Ain Shams University b Mechanical Power Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University

³ Mechanical Power Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University

10.21608/ejchem.2025.340946.10924

Abstract

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are critical for ensuring indoor air quality and thermal comfort; however, their operations significantly contribute to global energy consumption and carbon emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), HVAC systems are responsible for approximately 30% of global energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. This includes direct emissions from electricity consumption and indirect emissions from energy-intensive water treatment processes used in cooling systems. Therefore, assessing the carbon footprint of HVAC systems is essential for understanding their environmental impact and implementing strategies to enhance sustainability within the sector.

This study focuses on evaluating the carbon footprint of HVAC systems through a detailed analysis of their energy consumption, including electricity use, water evaporation, and wastewater discharge. The study highlights the significant contribution of electricity consumption to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and compares emissions from different HVAC technologies, such as natural gas-powered chillers versus electric-powered chillers.

By quantifying carbon emissions, this study aims to identify the key sources of GHG emissions from HVAC systems and provide insights into effective strategies for emission reduction. The findings contribute to the development of sustainable practices in the HVAC sector, offering valuable recommendations for mitigating the environmental impact of these systems.

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