Many homeowners worry that installing air conditioning could harm the environment. In reality, modern AC systems, especially heat pumps are one of the most efficient, low-carbon ways to heat and cool your home. In this guide, we explain how air conditioning impacts the environment, how climate change affects all of us, and what you can do to reduce your carbon footprint.
Why is Climate Change Such a Hot Topic?
Climate change is one of the biggest global threats we face today. Without action, we will see more extreme weather, rising sea levels, severe droughts and continued loss of wildlife. Global warming is already impacting how we live, and the effects will only worsen over the next few decades.
Human activity is the main cause of climate change. Every choice we make, from the transport we use to the energy that powers our homes affects the planet. To protect our future, we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move towards more sustainable, low carbon living.
What Can I Do To Help Reduce Global Warming?
Small changes made by millions of people can make a huge difference. Simple actions like reducing plastic use, cycling instead of driving, or eating less meat all help lower emissions.
However, one of the biggest changes you can make is switching to cleaner energy! Around a quarter of all man made greenhouse gas emissions come from burning fossil fuels for heat and electricity. By choosing a low carbon heating system, such as a heat pump, or an air conditioning unit, you reduce your household emissions and save money on energy bills, especially as energy prices continue to increase.
Is Air Conditioning Bad For The Environment?
Modern air conditioners (heat pumps) are highly efficient and low carbon. Although they use electricity, they produce far more heating or cooling output than the electricity they consume. This makes them significantly more efficient than gas boilers or electric radiators.
You can reduce your carbon footprint even further by choosing a supplier that provides 100% renewable electricity.
Modern AC units also use updated refrigerants with much lower environmental impact. Today’s refrigerants work at higher pressures and deliver better performance, which means the system uses less energy overall.
The UK government aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, which includes phasing out fossil fuel heating.
Heat pumps and air conditioners will play a major role in the transition to cleaner, greener energy. Right now, the government even offers 0% VAT on installation because they support these systems as a sustainable solution.
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Do Air Conditioners Release Harmful Gas?
All air conditioners contain refrigerant, but modern refrigerants are far more environmentally friendly than older gases. Due to strict F-Gas Regulations, manufacturers have invested heavily in safer, more efficient alternatives.
One of the best examples is R32 refrigerant, which has a global warming potential around two-thirds lower than older refrigerants. It is also easier to reuse, recycle and install. This proves that the AC industry is committed to reducing environmental impact.
Do Air Conditioners Release CO2?
No! The units themselves do not emit CO₂. However, they use electricity, and if your electricity comes from fossil fuels, the energy supplier will generate CO₂ during production.
You can avoid this by switching to a renewable energy provider, which completely removes this indirect CO₂ impact. The UK must legally generate 100% renewable electricity by 2050, so this will improve every year.
Do I Need To Have My Air Conditioning Serviced?
Yes. A yearly service by a qualified engineer keeps your system running efficiently. This reduces energy use, cuts your running costs and lowers your environmental impact. Regular servicing also helps prevent refrigerant leaks and keeps performance consistent. We offer maintenance and service plans tailored to you!
Which Air Conditioners Are The Most Environmentally Friendly?
When choosing an eco-friendly air conditioner, look for:
R32 refrigerant
A+++ or A++ energy ratings (especially on smaller units)
Smart sensors that switch off when the room is empty
WiFi control, allowing precise temperature management
Need advice? Get in touch with our expert team who will be able to recommend the perfect system for you.
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 needs. For expert advice on installation, maintenance, or emergency repair of an AC system, please contact our specialist team who will be happy to help!
Are modern air conditioners environmentally friendly?
Yes. Modern air conditioners use low-impact refrigerants like R32 and are far more energy-efficient than older systems. When combined with renewable electricity, they become a low-carbon cooling and heating solution.
Do air conditioners increase my carbon footprint?
Only indirectly. AC units use electricity, so your environmental impact depends on your energy supplier! Switching to a renewable energy provider drastically reduces your carbon footprint. AC units use less energy than your central heating but regulate the temperature in your home much faster.
What refrigerant is best for the environment?
R32 refrigerant is currently the most environmentally friendly option widely used in UK domestic AC systems. It has a much lower global warming potential compared to older gases and is easier to recycle.
Is a heat pump better for the environment than a gas boiler?
Yes. Heat pumps use far less energy and produce significantly fewer carbon emissions than gas boilers. They are also part of the UK’s long-term plan to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
How often should I service my air conditioner?
Once a year. Annual maintenance keeps the system efficient, reduces energy use, lowers running costs and ensures refrigerant levels remain safe and leak-free.
Are air conditioners expensive to run?
Modern AC units are very energy efficient. Many homeowners find that heat pumps cost less to run than electric heaters or older gas boilers, especially in well insulated homes.
Can air conditioning help reduce my energy bills?
Yes. Because heat pumps produce more heating or cooling energy than the electricity they consume, they can be cheaper to run compared to traditional systems.
Will installing air conditioning add value to my home?
In many areas, yes! As the UK moves towards low-carbon heating, homes with efficient air conditioning/heat pump systems are becoming more desirable and future proof.
Is air conditioning suitable for older UK homes?
Absolutely. Modern systems are compact, quiet and designed for both new builds and older properties. A specialist installer can recommend the best system based on your insulation, room sizes and needs.
