How Air Conditioners are Bad for the Environment?

Air conditioning units are normally powered by electricity, which is made from fossil fuels. Using electricity requires a big amount of energy, which produces carbon dioxide. At excessive levels, this greenhouse gas can trap heat near the planet’s surface and contribute to such environment damage as global warming. So when you use an air conditioning unit, you’re contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. However, newer designs are more energy efficient and use less electricity than older models.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that new HVAC units can save as much as 20 percent more energy over 10 years than older models.

Is an Outdated Air Conditioner System Worse for the Environment?

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your house cool in the summer. It’s also one of the most energy-efficient systems you can install in your house. The problem is that some people don’t understand how much damage an outdated air conditioner can do to the environment.

If your air conditioning system is outdated and inefficient, it will likely burn more electricity than newer systems. It can likely even be using more energy than necessary. This suggests that you’re paying more money on your electric bill while producing more greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. And if they have not been maintained properly, they can leak refrigerant into the environment. This is an environmental threat in addition to possibly detrimental to your health if it’s inhaled or touched.

How to Lessen Your Effect On the Environment

HVAC units have a considerable impact on the environment and can cost more than other types of cooling systems. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize your impact on the environment.

Air conditioners can be recycled and parts can be reused. The EPA approximates that 50 percent of units are still in working order after ten years. This means they could be recycled instead of disposed of. In addition, most air conditioners are energy efficient, so it makes sense to keep them operating as long as possible. When you’re ready to replace your system, purchase an Energy Star certified unit that meets strict requirements for energy efficiency, performance and indoor air quality.

Here are some ways to reduce your effect on the environment with your ac system:

• Use a programmable thermostat and set it to 78 degrees or higher when you’re not home. This will allow the air conditioning system to run less often, which lowers its energy usage and reduces your energy expenses.

• Clean or change filters regularly because filthy filters limit air flow and minimize performance.

• Use fans when possible instead of turning on the a/c system. Fans cool many people by distributing air around the body, while central air conditioning cools entire spaces by removing hot air from inside your home and replacing it with cooler outside air through vents throughout the house. If you use fans during hot weather, turn them off when using your central air conditioning system to avoid unnecessary energy usage when cooling needs are biggest.

New Air Conditioners have Improved Ecological Rankings

Today’s air conditioners use about 2 percent of all electricity consumed in the United States. They account for about 6 percent of all energy usage in houses, according to Consumer Reports. The magazine says that’s because newer designs use far less energy than older ones did.

The EPA states that new air conditioners have improved environmental ratings. It states that an Energy Star-rated unit uses at least 15 percent less energy than a basic model and has features like timers and remote controls that let you change temperatures from anywhere in your home– and even when you’re far from home The agency adds that Energy Star-rated units even use less water because they do not run until they reach their preferred temperatures.

Energy Star-Rated Models Installed by Air Now Heating and Air Davis County in Centerville, UT.

As you shop for a new air conditioner, you may see that some styles have an ENERGY STAR rating and others do not. What’s the difference?

The Energy Rating label on your air conditioning unit tells you just how much energy it uses and how much CO2 it produces. It also gives you an idea of how efficient your unit is and just how much money you’ll save on your electricity costs.

When you have questions about your air conditioning, call Air Now Heating and Air Davis County in Centerville, UT. at (385) 244-2433 and let us help you navigate through the process. Our crew will manage everything with your air conditioning installation and make sure you are getting the best, most energy efficient unit for your home.