Tremendous Energy Consumption
The air-conditioning systems also consume a lot more electricity leading to pollution in power generation. In regions where generators are used as source of electricity, the pollution is even greater.
Cooling degree days (CDD) measure temperatures compared with a specific temperature or comfort level and are often used to measure potential weather-related energy consumption. All else being equal, locations with high levels of cooling degree days and large populations tend to have significant demand for air-conditioning. For instance, four large cities in India are much larger than Los Angeles, California, and they also have more cooling degree days than Miami, Florida, one of the hottest metropolitan areas in the United States.
Precaution
- If you feel you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, then you need to get a professional in to take a look at the air-conditioner and check it for spores which linger in the hoses and ducts.
- If mold is found, then a professional cleaner is required as soon as possible. Keep a check while they are in the process of cleaning, making sure the job is correctly carried out with the use of certified chemical solutions that contain anti fungi and antibacterial properties.
- The use of a vacuum and brush will not be adequate as this procedure will only loosen the mold and bacteria so when the air-conditioner is in action, the spores will fly around causing further health problems.
- Keep filters clean by self-inspecting on regular basis. Filters blocked (with dust) make the machine work harder, best habitat for the biological pollutants and also uses more electricity.
- Turn off the AC unit during the process of cleaning and dusting in the room.
- Air-conditioned spaces should be regularly ventilated and arrangement for fresh air circulation should be made.
- Keep room temperature between 21º and 25º C so the extra burden over body thermostat should be avoided and body equilibrium should be maintained.
- Try to maintain an average humidity between 60% and 70% for the betterment of healthy skin.
- Save electricity each degree you are able to raise the thermostat, you will save 3-5% on air-conditioning costs. Keep the air in the room moving use a fan. A little breeze will make it feel even cooler.
- Using a timer to automatically switch air-conditioners on and off. If your model doesn’t have a timer function, use a separate plug timer between the air-conditioner and the plug socket.
- Reduce heat gain by pulling drapes or shades, and use shelters to prevent direct sunlight from streaming in through windows on the south and west-facing sides of the house. Overhangs, patio overheads, latticework, awnings work well.
- Don’t cool unoccupied rooms (but don’t shut off too many vents either, or it will put pressure on the system).
- Install heat-reflecting film on windows that face the sun. This will keep the house cooler reduce glare and ultraviolet rays.
- One of the most important principles of an energy-efficient home is to keep the house or building air sealed. Air sealing prevents the flow of heat from outside to inside and inside to outside.
Dr. Ammar Ibne Anwar Assistant Professor, Community Medicine Aligarh Muslim University
