Why would I consider alternatives to traditional air conditioning?

Traditional air conditioning uses hydrofluorocarbons which are in the process of being phased out because of the damage they cause to the ozone layer. According to the US Department of energy, controlling the temperature in buildings year round emits over half a billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, adding to the expanding global warming situation.  We are also generating about 24% of the nation’s sulfur dioxide through temperature control, which is a major component of acid rain. From a green stand point, the less air conditioning used, the less damage we will cause to the environment. Even newer air conditioners approved by the EPA emit harmful gasses, although they are less harmful than their predecessors.

There are some health considerations as well. Re-circulated air can increase the level of mold spores and chemicals in the air that your breath. People who are constantly in temperature controlled environments are shown to be more susceptible to upper-respiratory illnesses and sinus problems.  Socially, individuals who are accustomed to air conditioning may chose to avoid activities that expose them to the natural environment making them less likely to spend time outside and participate in outdoor activities.

How can I cool my house without air conditioning?

There are many ways to control the temperature of your living environment without relying on any system that mechanically cools air. Some of these may seem labor intensive or expensive at the beginning, but a larger investment now may save a significant amount of money in the future, not to mention considerably reducing your carbon foot print. Below are some of the more popular methods:

Landscaping – Adding trees in strategic areas around your house can significantly reduce energy costs every year. Deciduous trees placed on the south and west sides of your property can create a wind break, shade in the summer and allow light and radiant heat through in the winter. Vines and shrubs can also provide shading and cooling and may grow more quickly than trees.

Drapes and Blinds – Placing light-colored fabric that allows light through over your windows may help reflect much of the sun’s heat but still allow light through. Closing blinds on the windows that are getting direct sunlight during the day can also significantly reduce the sun’s effects.

Paint – The color of your house can also be a significant factor. Houses painted with dark colors will absorb much of the radiant energy during the day and transfer that heat into your house. Painting your house a lighter color can actually cut down the temperature and reflect the heat away from your house.

Insulation – Making sure that your house is properly insulated not only can keep your house warm in the winter, but also help keep it cool in the summer. Improving insulation and making sure all the nooks and crannies are sealed can prevent warm air from seeping in. Attic insulation can keep hot air from radiating down into the lower floors. You can also install a radiant barrier on the underside of your roof. This foil paper is stapled to the roof rafters to help reflect heat from the interior of your house.

Fans – One of the biggest ways to help cool down your house is to utilize a fan. Ceiling fans are some of the most effective as they create a draft throughout the room that creates a cooling effect. Window fans can also be very effective in many climates. Place a fan in the window facing out, close all of the nearby windows and open all of the windows at the other end of the house. The fan will pull hot air out of the house and cool air into it through the opposite windows. You may also want to look into getting a house fan. These fans are installed in the top floor ceiling and pull air up through your house and into the attic. These fans can create a draft through the entire house and pull cool air in from all open windows and doors.

But what if I live in a very hot area, or want air conditioning?

If you are in the market for an air conditioning system to cool your house, there are several new and ‘green’ options to explore available to the everyday consumer.

Evaporative Coolers – These are more commonly called swamp coolers and work very well in dry and arid areas. They cost less to install and use about a quarter as much energy as a traditional air conditioner. They do require more maintenance but it is not difficult or expensive. Evaporative coolers should not be used in humid climates as they will only add to the humidity in the room. Because they continually use water in the process, it is also not suitable for areas where limited water supplies are a concern.

Radiant Hydronic Cooling – This method uses the floor and ceiling to absorb the heat from the rest of the room. This is done by placing panels under the floor or in the walls through which chilled water is circulated. Unfortunately, for homes in humid areas, this method can cause condensation to build up in the house and is therefore more suitable to arid climates as well.

Geothermal Cooling – One of the up and coming green ways to cool your house, geothermal cooling is achieved by running a pipe into the ground, much like a well. Water or an anti-freeze/water solution is pumped through the pipes, pulling heat from the building and cooling it underground. These systems can be 20% – 40% more efficient than traditional air conditioners and can cut your energy costs by up to 50%.

If you think that going ‘green’ may be the best decision for you, contact a local contractor with HVAC training who specializes in alternative and green systems for the house. They will be able to provide professional advice for your specific situation.  You can also talk to a landscaper designer or local nursery for more information on the best plants and locations to utilize for shading and wind management. No matter how much or little money you have to spend, there is a green option that will fit in your budget.