Needless to say, air conditioners have become one of the must-haves of this era. However, just like many advancements in the evolution of mankind, it also comes with numerous disadvantages. For one, AC units use a lot of energy that not only spikes electricity bills but also greatly affects the environment.
With the rise of temperature and worsening level of humidity experienced right now, the demand for AC units has increased the demand for energy which results in more fossil fuel being burned – leading to CO2 emission that is also known to harm the environment.
Before World War II happened, air conditioning units were never deemed necessary at home. Aside from being financially impractical, in a country that experiences four seasons, it was culturally weird to use air conditioners.
However, things changed in 1928 when Freon was invented. As it was believed to be non-toxic and non-explosive, it made living in hot deserts possible. In just a span few years, almost half of American homes, including that of Las Vegas, are now installed with air conditioning units.
How Exactly Do Air Conditioners Affect the Environment?
With its power to cool down our houses and increase productivity, air conditioners are truly helpful in these daunting times of our lives. However, as it needs a lot of electricity to work, the use of air conditioners requires exhausting more of our limited resources.
In addition, while it was first thought to be non-toxic, it was later found that Freon is a CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) that contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer. It also acts as a global warming gas that yearly affects the atmospheric climate of the world.
Is it Possible to Mitigate the Harmful Effects of Air Conditioners on the Environment?
While much effort is required, yes, it is still possible to mitigate the harmful effects of air conditioners on the environment. Seeing how AC units have helped address the discomfort of many individuals – and how it has greatly helped in several fields, like medicine and digital technology – it is quite truly burdensome, if not impossible, to wipe out the use of this public cooling system.
Seeing the impact of air conditioning on the environment, what we have to do as become responsible owners of our HVAC system is to be aware of the things that we can do to help the environment without ditching our AC units.
First, when purchasing an AC unit, always go for the energy-efficient unit that you can afford. Upon using your air conditioner, always make sure not to set your thermostat lower than 70 degrees. While it is needless to say, it’s good to be reminded that air conditioning units should be turned off when not needed or when no one is using them at home.
But probably the most important thing that you can do is to make sure that you have a reliable HVAC service provider, like Fast Affordable Air, to conduct regular maintenance on all of your AC units. Keeping your HVAC system free from damages greatly helps in saving energy and affecting the environment.
For more details, feel free to contact Fast Affordable Air. Our team of experts will assist and help you with each of your concerns regarding your air conditioning unit. Help save the environment. Be a responsible steward of creation!
