How Bad are Air Conditioners for the Environment?

A/c units are generally powered by electricity, which is made from fossil fuels. The use of electricity requires a large amount of energy, which produces co2. At excessive levels, this greenhouse gas can trap heat near the world’s surface area and contribute to such environment damage as global warming. So when you use an air conditioning system, you’re contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Nevertheless, newer designs are more energy efficient and use less electricity than older models.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that brand-new air conditioning system can save up to 20 percent more energy over ten years than older models.

Is an Outdated HVAC System Worse for the Environment?

Your a/c unit is accountable for keeping your home cool in the summertime. It’s also among the most energy-efficient systems you can install in your house. The issue is that some individuals don’t realize just how much damage an outdated air conditioner system can do to the environment.

If your HVAC system is outdated and ineffective, it will likely burn more electricity than newer systems. It may even be using more energy than needed. This suggests that you’re paying more money on your power bill while producing more greenhouse gas emissions into the environment. And if they have not been maintained appropriately, they can leak refrigerant into the environment. This is an environmental hazard in addition to potentially detrimental to your health if it’s inhaled or touched.

How to Decrease Your Impact on the Environment

A/c units have a significant impact on the environment and can cost more than other kinds of cooling systems. Fortunately, there are ways to lessen your impact on the environment.

AC systems can be recycled and parts can be reused. The EPA estimates that 50 percent of units are still in working order after 10 years. Meaning 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 criteria for energy efficiency, performance and indoor air quality.

Here are some ideas to lessen your impact on the environment with your air conditioner:

• Use a programmable thermostat and set it to 78 degrees or higher when you’re not home. This will permit the air conditioning unit to run less frequently, which reduces its energy use and decreases your utility bills.

• Clean or replace filters regularly because dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce efficiency.

• Use fans when possible instead of switching on the AC unit. Fans cool most people by circulating air around the body, while central air conditioning cools entire spaces by removing hot air from inside your house 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 a/c system to prevent unnecessary energy usage when cooling needs are biggest.

New Air Conditioners have Greatly Improved Ecological Ratings

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 use in houses, according to Consumer Reports. The magazine states that’s because newer models use far less energy than older ones did.

The EPA states that new air conditioners have improved environmental rankings. It says that an Energy Star-rated system uses at least 15 percent less energy than a standard model and has functions like timers and remote controls that let you change temperature levels from anywhere in your house– and even when you’re far from home The agency adds that Energy Star-rated units also use less water since they don’t run until they reach their preferred temperatures.

Energy Star-Rated Models Installed by Air Now Heating and Air Conditioning in Ogden, UT.

As you shop for a new a/c, 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 a/c system tells you how much energy it uses and how much CO2 it produces. It even 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 Conditioning in Ogden, UT. at (801) 784-6343 and let us help you navigate through the process. Our team will manage everything with your air conditioning installation and make sure you are getting the best, most energy efficient system for your home.