Climate control: the end of the world as we know it

Climate control is a modern convenience that we take for granted. When it’s hot we adjust the temperature to cool ourselves down, and when it’s freezing outside, we ensure that indoors is toasty warm and comfortable. In the true spirit of human nature, we see that our own needs are met without really considering the possible consequences. It is no surprise that our obsession with controlling climate conditions has led to the increase of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This results in an increase in global warming and the overall destruction of the planet by those whose lives depend on it.

Things aren’t as bleak as they seem, and provided we do our best to use energy saving techniques when installing and using air conditioners, there is no reason why we should give them up, just yet. Installing your air con under some shade, or constructing a shade covering for the unit, will limit the energy the machine expends as it’s inner workings and wires are shielded from the sun. It’s also important to ensure that the airflow isn’t blocked or obstructed in any way, so that the unit doesn’t have to work twice as hard to be half as efficient.

When hot weather has been predicted, it’s better to have the air con working early in the morning rather than waiting for the day to heat up, as it takes more energy to cool down an already heated building. Air conditioners also function more effectively when the temperature outside is still mild and relatively cool. Refrigerative air conditioners work best when all the windows have been closed, otherwise all of the cool air escapes and the unit works to cool the entire exterior of the building. Another energy saving tip is to close the curtains on hot summer days and on cold winter nights. In summer the curtains will serve to block out the heat of the sun, while in winter they will serve to trap the heat indoors rather than let it escape via the windows.

Mobile air conditioners, those used in cars, also release powerful greenhouse gases. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the Mobile Air Conditioning Society Worldwide, and the US Environmental Protection Agency have joined forces in an effort to reduce the negative effects of vehicle air conditioners on the atmosphere.

New recycling machines have been developed that extract more refrigerant from the air conditioners while they are undergoing repairs. Less refrigerant escapes into the atmosphere and there is less damage to the environment. Another benefit of the new recycling equipment is that after the repairs are done, it recharges the air con system to precision point. A precise recharge increases the cooling capacity, improves energy efficiency, and enables the unit to avoid a system failure due to overcharge.

New leak detector technology is also available, which helps service professionals identify and repair leaks, even very small ones, in car air conditioners. Leak detectors also help to decrease the amount of refrigerant that escapes into the atmosphere. They are especially efficient when used in conjunction with the new recycling machines.

Air conditioners are commonplace conveniences: taken for granted when they’re present and much lamented when they’re not. They were created to ensure our comfort no matter the weather. This in itself isn’t a bad thing. The human race is meant to create and innovate. But one can’t help wonder if we’ve lost more than we’ve gained. We’ve lost the ability to adapt to extreme weather conditions. There are many people living in central Africa, America, and even in deserts who survive quite happily without air conditioning. Just as there are people in Alaska and Siberia who thrive in the cold without artificial sources of heat. There’s also the cost to the environment to consider. With the proper care and by being energy conscious, it’s possible to consider the environment without having to sacrifice one’s creature comforts.

Recommended sites:
http://www.epa.gov/cppd/mac/

http://www.greenhouse.gov.au/challenge/publications/factsheets/fs2.html

http://www.airconditioningfaq.com/Air-Conditioner/terminology/Air-Conditioning-Terminology.html#Energy%20Saving