Air conditioning units are one of the main culprits of household energy consumption and incurring high electricity bills. Aircons are widely used in Singapore due to the continuous rise in industries and local weather conditions. However, over the years, there have been several recommendations made to help offices and households save on their air conditioning costs. Leading aircon brands also have continued to innovate their products and improve their energy efficiency.
In Singapore, one of the main breakthroughs that have taken place in energy-efficiency air conditioners has been the recent invention of the water-based air conditioning system. The invention was made by researchers at the National University of Singapore. These ACs are not powered using the normal chemical refrigerants, which have long been recognized to be harmful to our environment.
This new innovative aircon also eliminates mechanical compressors. However, it can still cool down areas by as much as 18 degrees Celsius. One of the more significant advantages offered by a water-based air conditioner is they have been shown in tests to consume up to 40 percent less than the normal amount of electricity that traditional air conditioners consume. Just that alone guarantees a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions coming from air conditioners. A news report stated that this aircon is equipped with a dehumidifier as well, which makes it perfect to use in small spaces. It is also portable so you can conveniently use it both for outdoor and indoor activities.
The research team is currently looking at a potential collaboration for expanding production of this kind of air conditioner. However, the future is already looking bright for eco-friendly AC systems that Singaporeans can enjoy.
Other Ways To Responsibly Use Aircon
As eco-living has become increasingly mainstream recently, more people are doing what they can to reduce their own carbon footprints. However, aside from more solutions of using less single-use plastic and conscious recycling, there are other important aspects in our daily lives that we have become accustomed to that harm the environment. Unfortunately, using AC systems is one of those lifestyle staples that causes damage to the environment. With Singapore’s humid weather, aircon is definitely a must-have. Fortunately, there are many ways to alleviate that impact that using an aircon has on the environment. Many of them can easily be achieved at home:
The key here is ensuring that your aircon doesn’t work overly hard so that it will consume less energy and last longer as well. Another key is having proper aircon servicing done, including changing the air filters on a regular basis, along with cleaning the unit regularly as well. Room set-up is critical also to ensure a long lifespan of your aircon. It is very important for the rooms to be sealed properly so that your AC unit doesn’t have to work too hard to continue to condition the air. One common mistake that many households make is to have too many openings or cracks around the house. This can result in the aircon needing to work longer in order to reach the desired temperature, and that results in more work. So make sure to re-check your rooms and house to see where it can be potentially weatherproofed.