The Central Coast has a varied climate. While we may not get snow in winter, it certainly gets cold enough to warrant a good heating system. Yet when summer comes, it is as though the only place to escape the heat is at the beach.
Figuring out how to cool and heat a home in the most cost effective and environmentally friendly way can be tricky.
Air conditioning units are becoming more and more cost efficient and eco-friendly as technology continually betters itself. Split system reverse cycle air conditioners, in particular, are a great way to manage the sometimes unpredictable weather of the Central Coast. If set up and managed properly, not only will you have comfort in your home, but the impact on the environment can be minimal.
Below are a few tips and facts about how air conditioners can be used in the most environmentally friendly way.
Buy the Air Conditioner with the Best ‘Energy Rating’
You know the sticker we’re talking about. They’re on almost every appliance in any white goods shop. At a basic level, the more stars the better the air conditioner’s energy efficiency. What do we mean by ‘energy efficiency’? Basically, it means doing more with less: a good system will heat or cool a room well and won’t use much energy.
Often systems with good energy ratings will be a little more expensive, so it’s tempting to save money here. However, the better the energy efficiency, the less it will cost to run. More pertinently, the more ‘stars’ you have, the better your air conditioning system will be for the environment.
Size Matters
While it’s easy to imagine that buying a smaller air conditioner would be the most eco-friendly option, often this is not the case. If an air conditioner is too small, it won’t effectively heat or cool your home or room – but it will keep trying. This means it will be running more often, not only increasing your energy bill but wasting energy. Not so good for you or the environment!
Cons of Traditional Air Conditioners
As we’ve mentioned, air conditioning technology is improving all the time. Ductless air conditioners can be just as convenient as Central air conditioning systems, but with all the benefits of good energy efficiency.
Not only do traditional air conditioning units use more energy for less effectiveness, they often have a build up of condensation, moisture, debris and dirt. Essentially this means the air you’re breathing is not as clean as you might hope. Upgrading to one of the current best quality brands or installing one in your new home is one of the simplest ways to contribute to a more eco-friendly air conditioning system.
Using a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is one of the smartest ways to invest in good energy efficiency. Quite simply, this means you can set your air conditioner to turn off when no one is home and back on when you want. If you get this right, not only do you contribute to a more eco-friendly way of living, but you can wake up or arrive to a home perfectly regulated to your needs. No more coming home or waking up to a cold house if you want it that way!
Ensuring Regular Maintenance
Like anything used on a regular basis, the better the system’s health the better it works. Most professionals recommend to have your air conditioning unit serviced at least once a year. This will keep your unit running smooth, and will ensure there are no leaks. Ultimately maintaining a high quality of energy-efficiency and keeping up the eco-friendly standards you might be hoping for.
Depending on your needs and where you live on the Central Coast will change what you need to keep your house at a comfortable temperature while maintaining good energy efficiency. While we have given you some ideas to think about here, the possibilities to contribute toward a more eco-friendly approach to living is as wide as your imagination.
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