Climate change is a reality we’re all beginning to face head-on. Science has shown us that the Earth is already starting to feel the effects of global warming, and we all have a role to play in minimizing our contributions to this problem.
For home and business owners, maximizing the efficiency of your property is one of the biggest ways you can improve your carbon footprint – and your air conditioner is a great place to start! Here’s how AC maintenance can make your property a little greener.
Why AC Can Be Part of The Problem
As temperatures gradually increase, we’re running our air conditioners more than ever before. Unfortunately, AC requires a lot of electricity – especially if your unit is older or is overdue for maintenance.
Since all that power comes from burning fossil fuels, air conditioners contribute tremendously to the amount of greenhouse gases our population emits into the atmosphere.
Understanding Greenhouse Gases
We hear the term “greenhouse effect” often, but what does it actually mean?
The greenhouse effect refers to a rise in global temperatures due to human activities that produce greenhouse gasses: namely, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane. Our excessive production of these gases results in trapped heat within the Earth’s atmosphere, causing temperatures to rise along with a slew of other environmental concerns.
Fluorinated Gases Make a Bigger Impact
In addition to their high energy consumption, heating, and air conditioning systems may also release a category of gases known as fluorinated gases, or “F-gases”. They’re used in many HVAC systems because of their great heat-transfer properties.
If the system leaks, or there’s improper disposal, these gases can be released into the atmosphere and cause an even more dramatic negative impact on global warming.
How You Can Make Your HVAC System More Efficient
The good news is that you have significant control over how much your AC unit is contributing to climate change! Regular AC maintenance, getting repairs when necessary, and installing an updated unit will all help make your home as efficient as possible.
These simple actions reduce the amount of energy you’re burning to keep your space cool, limiting your carbon footprint and bringing down your energy bill, too!
As the region’s most dependable HVAC and plumbing repair techs, we’re passionate about helping local homes and businesses make their properties as efficient as possible. If you notice something’s not quite right with your air conditioner, give us a call at 951-694-1300 or contact us online today!
