The Environmental Benefits of Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems

The advent of energy-efficient HVAC systems has dramatically improved the way homeowners utilize their heating and cooling systems. In addition to providing savings on utility costs and improved performance, energy-efficient HVAC systems also have environmental benefits:

Fewer Carbon Emissions

Grid-based electricity is produced mostly from fossil fuels such as crude oil. More electricity consumed means higher direct carbon emissions, which, in turn, can be harmful to the environment. Therefore, households that use inefficient HVAC systems have a negative impact on the environment, and will continue to do so as long as they keep using the same.

According to the Energy Information Administration, an average home spends almost half of its annual energy costs on heating and cooling alone. Making the switch to energy-efficient HVAC systems can have a long-term positive effect on your annual energy consumption. More importantly, your home’s carbon emissions and its environmental impact can be dramatically reduced.

Ozone-Friendly Refrigerants

You may have already heard about how older HVAC systems have been gradually phased out over the past few decades. This is because of R-22 (HCFC-22), a type of refrigerant used in HVAC systems made before 2010, which has been found to contribute to ozone depletion and climate change. The thinner the ozone layer becomes, the warmer the atmosphere gets; therefore, steps have been taken to replace R-22 with ozone-friendly refrigerants such as R-410A. HVAC systems built after 2010 are compatible with R-410A right out of the box, and certain older models can be retrofitted by a capable HVAC technician to accommodate R-410A.

Another benefit of switching to R-410A-compatible HVAC systems is the energy savings. R-410A requires less compression to achieve ideal temperatures, which can improve your existing HVAC system’s energy efficiency. It also places less strain on the system, helping to lengthen its life span as well as improve its performance. Combined with a well-insulated home and a regular maintenance routine, an energy-efficient HVAC system can go a long way toward helping the environment.

To learn more about energy-efficient HVAC systems, call Amber Air Conditioning Inc. today at (951) 674-6974. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

Ed Lambert