Is Using Air Conditioning Bad?

Posted on: July 10, 2015
By: Alan O'Neill
Posted in: Plumbing

In a recently published article in TIME Magazine, the pros and cons of air conditioning was discussed. While Texas residents consider good air conditioning vital, there are some issues and benefits with using it.

Badly maintained air conditioning systems can make you sick, like worsening asthma problems and allergies. the article also mentions the “sick building syndrome”. People who spend most of their day in an office building may complain of “nasal congestion, breathing problems, headaches, fatigue and irritated skin”. These complaints can be caused by microorganisms and molds that may grow in under maintained air conditioning systems

The article also discusses air conditioning’s harmful impact on the planet. By our extended and lavish use of air conditioning we use much more energy, which increases global warming. If your system is not properly maintained, you’re going to use even more energy because your system isn’t working as efficiently as possible.

However, there are some important benefits discussed, too. Using air conditioning improves your indoor air quality. Because the air conditioning system filters the air it circulates, outdoor pollutants like pollen, dust and chemicals are reduced in the air inside. The use of Houston home air conditioning saves lives every summer in our 100 degree heat. Without it, people can suffer heat related illnesses and possibly death.

So, what can you do to keep yourself and the planet healthier, while staying comfortable? Use the air conditioning a little less. By keeping the thermostat a little higher in the summer means your air conditioning system doesn’t have to work as hard. This means your energy usage – and your electric bill – goes down, which decreases your A/C’s environmental impact. The article also discusses other potential health benefits by using the air conditioning less.

You should also keep your system properly maintained. Having Abacus provide a yearly air conditioning tune-up helps your equipment run at or as closely as possible to the original factory specifications, depending on age and overall condition. When your equipment runs efficiently it doesn’t have to run as long to do the job. And when the equipment doesn’t have to work as hard, it lasts longer.

Often, Abacus technicians find small problems that can be fixed quickly and inexpensively during the tune-up process. If neglected, these same issues can cause quite a dent in your wallet and result in the need for costly air conditioner repair services. For example, a refrigerant leak can be repaired easily and affordably if found early. But, if the leak goes undetected, it can drain the refrigerant and damage the compressor. A compressor can cost up to $1,000 to replace. And before the compressor breaks, the system will run inefficiently using a lot more electricity than it should, which means higher utility bills.

Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical is a full service residential contractor that has been serving the greater Houston area for over 50 years. Abacus is a member of the Greater Houston Chamber of Commerce and has an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau of Houston. Abacus is licensed and insured and offers 24/7 emergency service. To learn more about Abacus Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical, visit www.abacusplumbing.net or call 713-766-3605. License Numbers: ALAN O'NEILL M-20628 | TACLB82488E | TECL 30557 

Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical services the greater DFW area including, but not limited to: Houston, Humble, Baytown, Bellaire, Conroe, Katy, Spring, Sugar Land, The Woodlands and more. Check out Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical reviews or see Abacus A+ BBB to confirm Abacus is a company you can trust.