Air pollution has become a growing concern in recent years as the pollutants in the air have risen to dangerous levels. While there are many sources of air pollution, one often overlooked source is the air conditioner.
The air conditioner is one of the most common appliances in use today, and therefore, it is important to understand the ways in which it can contribute to air pollution. In this article, we will discuss three ways in which air conditioners can cause air pollution.
1. Excessive Use of Energy
These systems work by consuming a lot of energy. For example, the Department of Energy in the United States estimates that an air conditioner will use about 2,000 watts of power annually. That’s about 20% of the total power generated for use in some American households. The production of electricity associated with air conditioning causes emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide to increase.
2. Depletion of the Ozone Layer
The chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used in some air conditioning systems can directly impact the depletion of the ozone layer. These toxic chemicals are common in air conditioners and other electrical appliances such as refrigerators. When CFCs are released into the surrounding environment, they travel to the stratosphere. In the stratosphere, the CFCs come into contact with ozone molecules and destroy them. Of course, this is only true in the case of a leak.
3. Unclean Air Ducts
Unclean air ducts are one of the most significant problems in households with air conditioners. These ducts can accumulate a lot of dirt and dust over time. If they’re not cleaned regularly, they can release this dirt and dust, causing indoor air pollution. Therefore, it’s essential to have your air ducts cleaned by a professional every few years.
Conclusion
Your air conditioner may not have a direct impact on air pollution. However, other common issues can lead to environmental challenges. To keep your equipment in the Athens, OH area operating at its best, you can depend on David While Services for air conditioner repair, maintenance, and installation. We perform the same services for furnaces and also offer duct cleaning. Contact David White Services today for professional assistance.
