Abstract
The performance of three passive cooling systems in the hot, dry climate of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was evaluated in testcells. Weather data from the summer of 1993 were used to weigh the cooling potential of earth-coupled building, roof pond, and shower cooling tower systems. Each option was found suitable for cooling indoor air in this environment. Watering and shading the soil on a building roof enhances cooling system performance. Cooling performance is also enhanced by nocturnal spraying of water above a roof pond with movable insulation.