Air well

Air well is a structure or device designed to promote the condensation of atmospheric moisture. It has been used since ancient times to provide drinking water to people in regions where rainfall is sparse and groundwater is not available.

History

The concept of the air well has been known and utilized for centuries. Ancient versions of air wells were often built as tall, standalone structures that used the temperature difference between the night air and the day air to condense moisture.

Design and Function

The basic design of an air well is a large surface area which cools the air, causing it to release its moisture as condensation. This condensation is then collected and stored. The size and shape of the air well can vary greatly depending on the climate and the amount of water needed.

Types of Air Wells

There are several types of air wells, including the dew pond, the fog fence, and the dew condenser. Each of these types uses a different method to condense and collect water from the air.

Modern Uses

Today, air wells are used in arid regions around the world to provide a reliable source of drinking water. They are also used in some modern buildings to provide cooling and reduce the need for air conditioning.

See Also

• Water supply
• Water scarcity
• Dew pond
• Fog fence
• Dew condenser