In this article we discuss why the installation of an air conditioner could be a wise choice when considering the environment. We also look at global warming, how it is affecting us, and what positive changes we can make to reduce our impact.
WHY IS CLIMATE CHANGE SUCH A HOT TOPIC?
Climate change is the single most serious threat facing our planet today. Left unchecked, humans and nature will experience extreme weather, worsening droughts, rising sea levels and mass extinction of species. Unless we act now, global warming is set become more severe and widespread, and will have devastating consequences for our future generations.
The responsibility lies squarely on our shoulders to protect our Earth, as human activity has been the main driver of climate change. Everything we do in our day-to-day life has an impact on the planet. We all need to make wiser choices to live more sustainably and dramatically reduce our production of greenhouse gases if we stand a chance of limiting the damage that rising global temperatures will cause.
WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP REDUCE GLOBAL WARMING?
Whether you are cutting down on plastic, cycling to work or eating less meat your contributions to the cause may feel small, but collectively we can make a huge difference to climate change.
With energy prices set to unprecedently rise, there has never been a better time to consider where you are getting your energy from. One quarter of human made greenhouse gas emissions come from burning fossil fuels for electricity and heat production.
By switching to a highly efficient. low carbon heating solution, such as a heat pump, you could be making a wise choice financially, and doing your bit to protect the future of our planet.
ARE AIR CONDITIONERS BAD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?
Your air conditioner (also known as a heat pump) is a highly efficient, low carbon way to heat and cool your home.
Heat pumps do use electricity, however, they are far more efficient than other heating systems because the amount of heat they produce is more than the amount of electricity they use. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint further, there are many energy suppliers to choose from who guarantee 100% green electricity from renewable sources.
Refrigerant is a vital component contained within your air conditioner. Once considered very detrimental, modern day refrigerants contained in AC systems are kinder to the planet. They have higher pressure and produce more heating power, which in turn reduces energy consumption.
The government has ambitious plans to reach net zero emissions by 2050, which means that heating systems powered by fossil fuels will become a thing of the past and all of our electricity will be coming from renewable sources.
Installing a low carbon heat pump/air conditioner is a cost effective, sustainable heating and cooling solution, and the government are fully endorsing this by introducing a zero-rate of VAT for their installation.
DO AIR CONDITIONERS RELEASE HARMFUL GAS?
All air conditioners contain refrigerant which has historically had bad press due to its contribution to the greenhouse effect. However, in an ever advancing world technologically, and following the introduction of F Gas Regulations, the AC industry has invested heavily into producing air conditioners which are more efficient, and have less environmental impact.
The introduction of R32 refrigerant gas, shows that that the AC industry really means business when it comes to protecting our planet. R32 has a global warming potential of two thirds less than other refrigerant gases, making it kinder to the atmosphere. It is now readily available, easy to reuse, recycle and install.
DO AIR CONDITIONERS RELEASE CO2?
The simple answer to this question is NO! However they do use electricity for power, and unless your electricity is coming from renewable source it will be being generated from the burning of fossil fuels e.g. coal, oil or natural gas, a process with releases CO2 and other green house gases into the atmosphere. You as a consumer can choose where your electricity comes from by switching to a Green Energy Supplier, and as we discussed earlier, the UK is legally bound to produce electricity from renewable sources only by 2050.
DO I NEED TO SERVICE MY AIR CONDITIONER?
WHICH AIR CONDITIONERS ARE THE MOST ENVIROMENTALLY FRIENDLY?
As mentioned before technology in this area has advanced at a rapid pace. Air conditioners have become more compact and aesthetically pleasing in design and contain environmentally conscious energy saving features.
Of course, with such a variety available, choosing the most eco-friendly air conditioner can seem a daunting task.
To help you with your search, look for units that contain R32 refrigerant, have A*** energy ratings, (this usually applies to smaller models), smart sensors and are WIFI enabled, allowing for maximum efficiency and total temperature control. We have listed below some models that are a popular choice.
To make your decision an informed and easy one, we would advise you to contact a specialist AC installer, who will be able to assess your needs and recommend a suitable solution.
Mitsubishi MSZ-LN Mitsubishi MSZ-LN R32 Inverter Heat Pump
A*** energy rating (smaller models). Features i-save mode to reduce power consumption, 3D i-see sensor which switches the unit off when room is empty. R32 refrigerant. Built in WIFI interface.
A*** energy rating (smaller models), smart sensors, high efficiency, the ‘coanda’ effect, compact design. R32 refrigerant.
Panasonic Etherea with nanoe™ X technology
A*** energy rating (smaller models). low energy cost and consumption. R32 refrigerant. Advanced control options, stylish design, and intelligent features.
A** energy rating, Outstanding energy efficiency is achieved by using a high-efficiency lamda heat exchanger, large crossflow fan and R32 refrigerant. Smart device control (optional). Low ambient operation.
Evergreen provide AC services to suit all budgets and applications. For expert advice on installation, maintenance, or emergency repair of an AC system in your home please contact our specialist team.
