How Air Conditioning Affects the Environment

With the world generally getting warmer the need for air conditioning increases. But do HVAC units have a negative or positive impact on climate change? Below we explain how air conditioning affects the environment so you can understand the pros and cons.

AC Improves air quality

Air conditioning keeps your home cooler and also improves the air quality. To maintain performance levels regular maintenance should be carried out on the system, which includes changing the air filters as recommended. A good addition to a HVAC unit is to also use a humidifier or air purification system, which adds to the existing health benefits you will be able to enjoy.

Examples of our air conditioning installations – to see larger images please select from below:

Lower carbon emissions

Installing an energy-efficient air conditioning system also has its benefits for your home or commercial space. Using less electricity means fewer fossil fuels are burned by the energy provider, which has a positive effect on the environment. At the same time, this should also lower your energy bills, which is important as the vast majority of domestic energy costs are usually spent on heating and cooling.

Eco-friendly refrigerants

Older HVAC systems that used R22 refrigerants have now been phased out due to the damage caused to ozone. Refrigerants such as R410A are now being used instead as they are more eco-friendly and also more efficient. They can absorb more heat, which makes the unit cooler, and can operate at higher pressures, which increases their long-term durability.

Does air conditioning negatively impact the environment?

It is important to be aware of the negative impact air conditioning units can have on the environment. Many systems are powered by electricity, which means fossil fuels are burned and harmful gases are emitted into the atmosphere. Improved technology means that refrigerants today are far efficient than they ever have been. However, they still produce gaseous emissions that play a role in the global warming issue facing the world.

The biggest changes need to occur outside of the AC industry, with use of clean energy sources required to replace electricity and the development of smart grids with greater controls that allow for better management during peak periods. The implementation of the Kigali Amendment in 2016 ensures that improved refrigerants are being used by manufacturers (hydrocarbons such as carbon dioxide and propane).

Get a free survey and quote

If you want to install a more energy efficient air conditioning unit and improve the air quality in your home, get in touch with AAC today to arrange a free quote and survey at a time that suits you. Email info@aacteam.co.uk or call 01707 32 55 66.