Eco-friendly Tips to Buy an AC

Many homeowners are now aware of the importance of conserving the environment and how they can contribute towards the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. They realize that through saving energy, they can not only save some money, but they can also play a part in making the world a better place. One appliance that definitely consumes a high amount of energy in most homes is the air conditioning unit. That is why it is so important that you look for the most eco-friendly brand when making your purchase. Fortunately, these brands are not too hard to find.

In order to find an eco-friendly AC unit, you need to be aware of the most important features to look out for. It’s not just about going to the store and asking to be given one. Once you know what you want, finding it will be very easy. Here are some eco-friendly tips to help you buy an AC:

1. Choose the appropriate size

Size is very important when choosing an AC. If it is too small, it will end up overworking your system and increase your energy bill as a result. At the same time, such a unit will not be capable of balancing the air being cooled by its condenser with the hot air it releases. You can have a technician look at your house and recommend the proper size for you.

2. Find a unit that has two-stage compressors

Compressors consume the most energy in AC units. The work of compressors is to push out hot vapors in order for the refrigerant to cool down. If your AC has two-stage compressors, it will be compressing less on a cool day and more on hot days. This will save you a significant amount of energy.

3. Go for highest energy efficiency ratings

The ENERGY STAR® or SEER ratings are hugely significant in a wide variety of appliances. Any AC unit that has these types of certifications or ratings will use much less energy than one that doesn’t. In fact, the amount of energy saved can go up to 50%. At the same time, the unit is likely to have a thermostat that you can use to set the system’s temperature.

4. Install a programmable thermostat

This is one of the cheapest ways to make your AC eco-friendly. When you have a programmable thermostat, you will be able to program it to turn it off when you are not at home and on when you are just about to come back.

5. Regular maintenance

Having your AC inspected and serviced by a professional contractor is crucial if you want it to remain energy-efficient. Service entails checking for leaks and also ensuring the air flow is good. If there is a need for a new AC filter, the professional will make the recommendation.

Conclusion

Air conditioning provides us with some comfort on extremely hot days, especially during the summer. However, they can also be the source of considerable environmental harm. The best way we can prevent this is by investing in eco-friendly AC. These five tips should help you in this regard.

Salman Zafar

Salman Zafar is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of EcoMENA. He is a consultant, ecopreneur and journalist with expertise across in waste management, renewable energy, environment protection and sustainable development. Salman has successfully accomplished a wide range of projects in the areas of biomass energy, biogas, waste-to-energy, recycling and waste management. He has participated in numerous conferences and workshops as chairman, session chair, keynote speaker and panelist. He is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management and environmental sustainability across the globe Salman Zafar can be reached at salman@ecomena.org

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