Air Conditioning Has a Huge Impact on the Environment
Important Facts and Tips from Your HVAC Team in Easton, PA
As per the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 87% of American residences have some kind of air conditioners, which accounts for 12% of the total home energy expenditures. The U.S. Department of Energy confirms that cumulatively, home air conditioners use about 6% of the electricity produced in the country, and release about 117 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the air every year. This means each home in the U.S. emits about 2 tons of greenhouse gases every year. The use of air conditioning is not cheap. Annually in the U.S., about 29 billion dollars go into air conditioning expenses, including energy costs and repairs.
With Americans using more air conditioning than all other nations combined, our cumulative usage creates a huge negative impact on the environment. Hence, it is important for each of us to do our bit for reducing our energy usage, and cutting down on carbon emissions. Read on to know more about how you can contribute.
Tips for Optimizing Your Home Air Conditioning
It is a known fact that global warming has led to a steady rise in temperatures over the years. The increasing severity of summer heat takes a toll on your AC unit, as it has to work harder than before to keep your home cool. While a well-primed air conditioning system consumes optimal energy and keeps emissions to the minimum, a damaged, leaky or old unit risks polluting the environment quite severely.
Switching to a high-efficiency AC unit and taking a few other small measures can help you save your home energy costs by 20% to 50%. Since replacing the system may require a huge upfront investment, you may have to plan for it and evaluate the right time for an upgrade. In the meantime, here are some other quick and easy ways to conserve home cooling costs:
- Install a smart thermostat that offers intelligent, programmable features, as well as virtual control via mobile devices. As per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Energy Star program, a programmable thermostat can help you save up to $180 in air conditioning costs each year. Furthermore, for each degree that you set your thermostat above 72 degrees Fahrenheit, you will eliminate 120 pounds of CO2 emissions.
- Regularly clean and replace the filters of your air conditioner. This alone can lower your energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
- Keep an eye on the refrigerant levels to check if they need adjustments, and inspect the heat exchanger for any leaks, cracks or deterioration.
- Clean dirt or dust off the supply and return registers at regular intervals.
- Keep the fan, compressor and condenser free of dirt and debris. While cleaning the outdoor unit, use a garden hose to spray the dust off the coil. Do not use a pressure washer, as the high pressure could bend or damage the fins.
- Most importantly, call an HVAC Specialist for any repairs, or if any component looks faulty or damaged.
Today, only 42% of homeowners call a professional when they need any repairs. Those who hire qualified technicians enjoy AC systems that last 40% longer than the average AC lifespan. In fact, if your D-I-Y approach does not address the core issue, your AC unit may continue to consume excessive energy, or release greenhouse gases into the air.
At Comfort Solutions HVAC, we offer a range of affordable, efficient, and environment-friendly cooling solutions that improve energy conservation and reduce CO2 emissions. From installation of new AC units and smart thermostats, to attractive preventative maintenance packages, and prompt repairs and replacements, we address all your cooling requirements under one roof.
Need to install a new AC, schedule a routine tune-up, or upgrade to a smart thermostat? Speak to the experts at Comfort Solutions HVAC on 610-438-9300 or contact us online.
