The Netherlands is bracing itself for another spell of high temperatures. More and more households are opting for air conditioning to keep their homes cool and comfortable. According to Techniek Nederland, there are quite a few persistent misconceptions about air conditioning.
Many people believe that air conditioning is an energy guzzler. According to Maurice Roovers, a climate technology expert at the trade association, that perception has been outdated for years. ‘A modern air-conditioning system is more energy-efficient and climate-friendly than ever. It makes homes comfortable and healthier during a hot summer,’ says Roovers. ‘A good air-conditioning system ensures a pleasant indoor climate, a better night’s sleep and improved concentration. Air conditioning can help prevent health problems caused by heat.’
Growing demand
Warmer summers are driving up the demand for home cooling. The Netherlands is increasingly becoming a country where air conditioning is commonplace. Roovers: ‘The image of air conditioning has improved significantly over the past ten years, and rightly so. Modern systems offer efficient and sustainable comfort. It is becoming increasingly common to have an air-conditioning system.’
Modern systems offer efficient and sustainable comfort. It is becoming increasingly common to have air conditioning.Maurice Roovers, climate control expert at Techniek Nederland
Cooling using your own solar power
A modern air-conditioning system is energy-efficient, particularly when combined with solar panels. Anyone who cools their home during the day using electricity generated by their own solar panels is using renewable energy and reducing the strain on the electricity grid. This helps to alleviate grid congestion. However, Roovers points out the differences between systems. ‘A fixed split-system air-conditioner from a reputable brand is considerably more comfortable and efficient than a portable model. If you want to cool your home on a long-term basis, you should opt for a high-quality system that is well suited to your home.’
Active cooling
Techniek Nederland advises switching off air conditioning in the evenings. Roovers: ‘Active cooling is usually not necessary in the evening and at night. Temperatures in the Netherlands usually drop below 20 degrees in the evening and at night. In many cases, opening windows and ventilation grilles allows a home to cool down naturally. This saves energy and puts less strain on the electricity grid. If you have solar panels, they generate very little electricity after 7.00 pm. You will therefore mainly be using electricity from the grid at that time. With the introduction of flexible grid tariffs in 2029, cooling at that time could become considerably more expensive.’
The environment
According to Techniek Nederland, the idea that air conditioning is bad for the environment is only partly true. The extent to which a refrigerant contributes to global warming is expressed by its Global Warming Potential (GWP). The lower the value, the smaller the impact on the climate. Ten years ago, the GWP of the refrigerant used in air conditioning systems was around 2,000. The latest generation of air conditioning systems uses a natural refrigerant, such as propane. The GWP of propane is approximately 3.
Heat emissions in cities
A common argument against air conditioning is that it contributes to the urban heat island effect in towns and villages. According to Roovers, this is not true. ‘The unit does not produce any extra heat, but rather moves heat around. The heat released outside is largely the heat that has been extracted from the home. Only the energy from the compressor is added to that as heat. The contribution of air conditioning to urban heat is limited. The ‘heat island effect’ is mainly caused by solar radiation, traffic, and asphalt and concrete, which trap heat. Compared to these factors, the impact of modern air-conditioning systems is negligible.’
Heat pumps can also cool
Another way to cool a home is to combine a heat pump with underfloor heating. When the heat pump is set to cooling mode, cool water flows through the underfloor heating. The temperature of that water is a few degrees lower than the room temperature. This doesn’t give the ‘cold’ effect of an air conditioner, but it does make the house feel slightly less warm. Most modern heat pumps are capable of not only heating but also cooling.
First, keep the heat out
According to Techniek Nederland, air conditioning should not be the first step in keeping a home cool, but the last. Roovers: ‘The best energy is the energy you don’t need to use. Keep the heat out as much as possible during the day with good sun protection, screens, roller shutters or closed curtains on the sunny side of the house. Balanced ventilation and insulation also play a part. A well-insulated home with pre-cooled ventilation air not only retains heat in winter, but also ensures that the heat stays outside for longer in summer. Combine this with sun protection and night-time ventilation, and the indoor climate will remain pleasant in many homes. If that’s not enough, a modern air conditioner offers a comfortable and energy-efficient solution.’
Featured image: u_ssfofehsaj via Pixabay
See also: New smart windows make buildings more energy-efficient
