Abstract: The present invention teaches systems and methods for improving the thermal efficiency of an existing refrigeration system having a heat exchanger comprising: an enclosure having side walls for enclosing at least a portion of the heat exchanger and being removably attached to the existing refrigeration system; a venting system for flowing cooling air within proximity with the heat exchanger and releasing the cooling air to an outside environment in order to increase a release of heat from the heat exchanger, wherein the enclosure is operable for reducing heating of an inside environment by the existing refrigeration system, or by functionally channelling the heat so it increases heat when desirable while minimizing the impact to refrigeration.
Abstract: A straw bale wall vent box is provided in a wall joinery system comprising a lower member, a substantially planar top member, and a plurality of rebar disposed through the top member and a bottom side of the lower member. The lower member can further include insulation, a drainage floor sloping downwardly from an exterior side, and a trim piece extending from the bottom side towards the plaster screed. In some embodiments the trim piece joins the plaster screed. In those embodiments in which the trim piece joins the plaster screed, both sides of the lower member can each include at least one aperture. Additional embodiments are directed to a straw bale wall vent system comprising a plurality of wall vent boxes placed side by side so that the first and second sides of adjacent vent boxes are substantially in contact.