Air conditioning presents a big environmental problem for much of the world, including Conroe, TX. AC usage is increasing electricity consumption without enough renewable energy sources in place. The power industry expects it to be the leading driver of demand by 2050. By that time, AC will also account for at least 10% of all greenhouse gas emissions. The problem isn’t solely caused by carbon dioxide production but also by the hydrofluorocarbons used in refrigerant.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
If every U.S. homeowner switched to a heat pump or more efficient AC option, we would drastically reduce our climate pollution. In fact, HVAC systems account for more than 40% of energy consumption in the average American home. This is why the federal government works with organizations like the EPA to continue tightening HVAC regulations. Even small improvements each year have an enormous effect on the average household carbon footprint.
Decreased Greenhouse Gases
Carbon refers to CO2 and is often used as shorthand for greenhouse gases. That said, greenhouse gases are a much bigger and more multifaceted problem than CO2 alone. As of 2023, the EPA estimates that worldwide air conditioning contributes to 4% of all greenhouse gas emissions. To put this into context, this is double what the entire aviation industry produces. That percentage is set to increase to 10% by 2050 at the current rate.
Energy-efficient HVAC systems result in fewer greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases trap heat energy radiating from the earth. That heat energy being trapped in the atmosphere makes the planet hotter than it should be. This is known as global warming.
Lowered Consumption of Limited Resources
HVAC is a leading cause of energy consumption in the U.S. for both residential and commercial purposes. Most American homes get their heat from burning natural gas. Companies often frame natural gas as a clean energy source. It is relative to other fossil fuels, but it’s still a contributor to greenhouse gases.
The other issue is that natural gas is a finite resource. More homes will have to use heating oil, propane, and electricity in the future. All air conditioners and heat pumps use electricity. Many furnaces and boilers do now as well. Most of the electricity we use in the U.S. is created by burning coal. Our society could greatly mitigate the negative effects of electricity consumption. Implementation of renewable energy sources is nowhere near keeping up with current HVAC energy consumption.
Less Pressure on Power Providers
Despite being profit driven, many electric companies provide customers with money-saving resources to motivate decreased energy consumption. This is because striking a balance is better for all involved. When providers are under heightened demand, they often make less money. One of the main reasons is that operating at near full capacity is not nearly as efficient as operating somewhere closer to 50%.
Less Harmful Refrigerant
Refrigerant is often overlooked when it comes to the negative environmental impact of air conditioners and heat pumps. These substances contain HFCs, which are among the worst kinds of greenhouse gases. Through regulations, the U.S. and many other countries have lowered HFCs and stopped the presence of the worst HFCs. The Department of Energy currently has an HFC phase-down program in place. This will be achieved through not only more eco-friendly refrigerants but also HVAC equipment that uses those substances in a safer and more efficient manner.
Pollution Control and Sustainable Development
Reduced energy consumption and a lowered carbon footprint at the individual level do have a wider effect. By creating less pollution, you allow for less immediate pollution control and more focus on long-term strategies. Similarly, by lowering energy demand, you allow energy companies to focus less on what’s going on right now and more on sustainable solutions for the future.
Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems in Conroe
If you’d like to make your home’s HVAC system as eco-friendly as possible, Air Houston Mechanical LLC in Conroe is here to help. Our technicians install different types of ducted and ductless heating and cooling equipment. We perform home energy audits that identify your main areas of energy loss. Our company also has indoor air quality experts that clean ducts and install air purification systems.
Call Air Houston Mechanical LLC today or contact us online with any additional questions or to schedule a service appointment.
