POTENCIAL DE APROVEITAMENTO DE ÁGUA CONDENSADA DE AR CONDICIONADO EM EDIFICAÇÕES DA UNIVERSIDADE DE BRASÍLIA

Abstract

The study investigates the potential for utilizing condensate water produced by air conditioning systems in buildings at the University of Brasília. Based on field analysis and technical surveys conducted at the Darcy Ribeiro and Planaltina campuses of the University of Brasília, current practices regarding the disposal of condensate water were identified, and the volumes generated by air conditioning equipment in various buildings were quantified. The methodology considered the relationship between cooling capacity and condensate production, revealing that, despite the significant volumes produced—ranging from 9.19 to 24.31 liters per hour—the predominant destination is disposal into stormwater or sewage systems, with no reuse. Barriers such as lack of infrastructure, initial investment costs, and the absence of integration between projects and institutional policies were identified as limiting factors. The study highlights alternatives for non-potable uses, such as landscape irrigation and toilet flushing, and emphasizes the potential for adopting these practices. It concludes that valuing this resource could contribute significantly to reducing potable water consumption and enhancing urban water resilience, recommending the expansion of initiatives, pilot projects, and integration between public and private sectors to facilitate the reuse of condensate water in urban environments.