Subject: Re: Getting better efficiency from existing/new heat pumps/ACs

From: [email-masked]
Date: 27 Oct 1996 20:10:04 -0700

Here in the Southwest a precooler is a very effective means of lowering head
pressure. 
A mini-evaporative cooler is placed in front of the condenser coil. The quality units
use the Celdek type pad, a honeycomb like rigid paper structure. This type of pad
allows very little free water to hit the coil. Free water (or drops) will corrode
the aluminum in a very short time. 
Supply air to the conditioned space can gain 2-4 degrees deltaT. Compressor life is
longer and bills are lower. Not incredibly lower, the unit may take 2-3 years to pay
off in savings.
Precoolers will also have positive effects in more humid climates, but the payback
period will be longer.

Jim Sullivan