Earth to Air Heat Exchanger systems: A Comprehensive Review of Design and Performance with Case Applications in Iranian Greenhouses

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Paper

Authors

Faculty member, Renewable Energy Department, Energy and Environment Research Center, Niroo Research Institute (NRI), Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/ses.2025.393932.1136

Abstract

The use of Earth-to-Air Heat Exchangers (EAHX) has increasingly been recognized as an effective and innovative approach for providing heating, cooling, and ventilation in various built environments. This study evaluates the performance of these systems through an analysis of implemented projects in different countries and examines the outcomes of their operation. Key parameters influencing the efficiency of EAHX systems include pipe material, burial depth, duct length and diameter, surrounding soil type and moisture, soil thermal conductivity, and air flow rate. Optimal selection and design of these parameters significantly enhance system efficiency and optimize heat exchange between air and the ground. The findings of this research demonstrate that the proper implementation of EAHX systems can lead to substantial energy savings, improved indoor thermal stability, and reduced environmental pollutants. Moreover, the performance of these systems has been examined in several greenhouses across the country, where their positive effects on reducing final production costs and increasing energy efficiency have been confirmed. In some implemented greenhouse projects, a temperature change of 10°C resulted in up to 70% energy savings, along with improvements in the quantity and quality of the crops. This has encouraged private sector investment in this field. Given the relatively low initial cost, minimal maintenance requirements, and high efficiency under proper design conditions, EAHX systems can serve as a sustainable and economical solution for greenhouse energy supply in various regions of Iran.

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Journal of sustainable Energy Systems

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 10 May 2025

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