Today we are more aware of our environmental impact and duty than ever before. Years of industrialisation and modern consumption have affected the natural world and the climate, placing plants, animals as well as humans at risk.
Whenever we invest in a new heating or cooling system, we need to understand how it will impact the world around us. It is important, therefore, to know the energy it’s using and the substances it’s omitting, to be able to reduce its impact. Air conditioning units are no different.
Each year, the UK’s temperatures are rising, increasing the demand for air conditioning. With years of research dedicated to creating more eco-friendly units, progress here offers us a better understanding of lowering their effect on the environment. Our guide will explain everything you need to know about limiting this effect.
How AC Can Impact The Environment
Whilst engineers are constantly developing new, innovative ways to cool our homes without harming the environment, there are still factors that can impact the natural world. Every year, new developments are increasing efficiency and replacing harmful materials. Discover how advancements have helped to reduce the effect of the following:
CFCs and HFCs
CFCs and HFCs help to demonstrate the long way AC units have come regarding their impact on the environment. CFCs were harmful chemicals that were previously used as cooling agents within air conditioning units. When the shocking reality of their contribution to climate change came to light, they have been replaced with modern alternatives.
Ever since the 1980s, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have been known as a pivotal culprit damaging the ozone layer. Since the worldwide ban on CFCs in 1987, CFC use has ended.
In their place, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) were used. Whilst they have negligible impact on the ozone layer, they did still contribute to the greenhouse effect. In fact, they proved to be worse than carbon dioxide and a major risk to the climate. In response, HFCs have been slowly phased out of AC unit production and replaced with more eco-friendly options.
Energy Usage
As with every electrical product, energy usage is the primary environmental impact of an air conditioning system. If your energy is generated from non-renewable sources like fossil fuels, that production will negatively impact the environment.
A simple way to limit the amount of energy you use is by considering how efficient your AC unit is. Each system has an Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) that indicates the cooling effect of each watt of energy the machine uses, allowing you to select the best option.
Construction
You may never consider how the construction of your AC unit impacts the environment. However, when you come to dispose of a machine, its components determine whether it can be recycled. Most modern units are made from plastic, which is typically single-use. As we advance our recycling knowledge and techniques, we can increasingly handle these materials, and manufacturers are now using new recyclable materials to combat this issue.
Reducing The Environmental Impact Of AC
By taking some simple steps and considering a few things when purchasing and setting up your air conditioner, you can dramatically reduce its impact on the environment. Here are some of the best practices:
Choosing Efficient Devices
The most effective way of reducing your air conditioning’s impact on the environment is by choosing an energy-efficient unit. Look for a high EER, as these units provide the largest cooling output per watt of energy. This efficiency means you can achieve the same cooling effect for less energy than a unit with a low EER, cutting your energy bills and dependence on harmful fossil fuels.
Servicing
The older your air conditioning unit is, it becomes less efficient. Regular maintenance and servicing, per the manufacturer’s guidelines, will make your unit more effective and subsequently reduce its energy consumption. A professional will service your unit correctly and prevent damage.
Repairs are also crucial for keeping your machine running efficiently for longer. A broken machine risks harming the environment and people, so you must call a specialist and get it repaired quickly.
Insulating Homes
You can significantly decrease your heating and cooling usage by properly insulating your home. Install loft, cavity wall and floor insulation and double-glazed windows to prevent heat from leaking from your home. These measures will lower the need for heating and cooling.
Placement
Understanding the best practices for setting up an air conditioner in your home or building will also lower its environmental impact. Choosing efficient locations where the unit can circulate air properly decreases the energy required to cool your home. Position your unit near the ceiling with a 15cm border around each side so that air can pass through the vents. The cool air will sink and cool your home.
Most air conditioners will have an external unit, and it is essential to shade this unit to increase its efficiency. You could place it near trees or build an artificial cover to prevent heat from affecting its performance.
Going Smart
Smart technology has revolutionised how we control the systems in our homes and has recently been extended to air conditioners. With the help of WiFi, you can now control connected units via a mobile device or home hubs like Alexa or Google Home.
They allow you to turn on the air conditioner as and when you need it from wherever you are, meaning that if you want to come home from work to a cool home, you can simply turn on the unit whilst you are travelling back, meaning it doesn’t have to run all day when you aren’t in. This flexibility saves energy and lowers your carbon footprint.
Choose PRA For Environmentally Friendly AC
If you want to decrease the impact of your air conditioning on the environment, we are here to help. At PRA Air Conditioning, we believe air-conditioning units should be available without significantly harming the environment.
We supply and install energy-efficient air conditioning solutions for commercial, residential and industrial environments. Plus, our highly trained engineers can service, maintain and repair units to increase their longevity and efficiency, lowering their effect on the environment.
To learn more about how we can help you with your air conditioning and HVAC systems, contact our friendly experts today. We will happily answer all of your questions.