Resident behavior and activity pattern influencing electrical consumption in household air conditioners in Tripoli - Libya

Abstract

Air conditioning systems are essential in the Libyan residential buildings. This study focuses on the resident behavior and activity pattern that affecting electrical consumption related to the air conditioning systems, as part of applying energy efficiency standards and labels program. The data were collected using a questionnaire prepared for this purpose. Questionnaires were distributed on more than 150 families living in Tripoli- Libya, to determine the average number of air conditioners installed in each building, types of air conditioners, operating hours for each type, the average cooling capacity in (Btu/h), as well as the consumption rate during hot months. 103 responses out of 150 were collected and statistically analyzed using Excel sheet, while 10 incomplete responses were rejected. Results showed that more than 31 air conditioning brand names with different manufacturers and sizes are installed. Also, it was found that the average operating hours during the cooling period is 12.9 hours/ day, with average annual operating hours for each type is about 1430 hours/year. In terms of air conditioner cooling capacity, the most commonly used air conditioners are with a cooling capacity of 12,000 Btu/h, and about 1926 hours/year. Then the 18,000 Btu/h with about 1880 hours/year. While the lowest used air conditioners are with a cooling capacity of 9000 Btu/h are about 1214 hours per year. It is also evident that the most relatively acquired types are the cheapest air conditioning systems regardless the energy efficiency criteria.