**Anchorage AC: "Clean" Air Crashing Summer Biome?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 4, 2026

Imagine stepping off a plane in Anchorage in July, expecting crisp, cool air, only to be greeted by a surprising wave of warmth. It’s a sign of the times, and it’s changing how Alaskans live. The rising temperatures are driving increased air conditioning use, and that has consequences for the delicate Alaskan environment. We need to understand those consequences and find ways to cool down responsibly.

Air conditioning, while offering relief from the heat, extracts heat from inside a building and dumps it outside. This process, coupled with the energy consumption required to run the AC unit, can disrupt the local biome’s delicate balance of humidity and temperature. Anchorage, with its unique climate and relatively small population, is particularly vulnerable to these effects.

Let’s talk about AC efficiency. In Anchorage, where energy costs can be significantly higher than in other parts of the U.S., choosing an energy-efficient AC unit is crucial. Look for a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. A higher SEER rating means the unit uses less electricity to produce the same amount of cooling. Don’t just grab the cheapest unit; calculate the long-term cost savings of a more efficient model, factoring in Anchorage’s electricity rates.

Consider a scenario: Two identical homes in the Turnagain neighborhood of Anchorage. One homeowner buys a cheap AC unit with a SEER rating of 10. The other invests in a high-efficiency unit with a SEER rating of 20. Over a typical Anchorage summer, the homeowner with the SEER 20 unit will likely save hundreds of dollars on their electricity bill. That’s money that can be spent on exploring the Chugach Mountains, not wasted on inefficient cooling.

Humidity control is another critical factor. Air conditioners remove humidity as they cool, but in smaller Anchorage homes, this can lead to overly dry air, causing discomfort and even health problems. A simple DIY solution is to place a bowl of water near a vent. The evaporating water will naturally increase the humidity in the room. Monitor the humidity levels with a hygrometer, aiming for a range of 30-50%.

Refrigerant leaks pose a significant threat to Alaskan wildlife habitats. Many older AC units use refrigerants that are potent greenhouse gases. If these refrigerants leak into the atmosphere, they can contribute to global warming and damage the ozone layer. Regularly inspect your AC unit for leaks and have it serviced by a qualified technician. When replacing an old unit, ensure the refrigerant is properly recovered and disposed of.

What about alternatives to traditional AC? Anchorage’s climate, while warming, still offers opportunities for natural cooling.

• Strategic Ventilation: Open windows at night to let in cool air and close them during the day to trap the cool air inside. This works best when there’s a significant temperature difference between day and night.
• Fans: Use ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate air and create a cooling breeze. Fans use significantly less energy than air conditioners.
• Window Coverings: Install blackout curtains or reflective window film to block sunlight and reduce heat gain.
• Landscaping: Plant trees and shrubs around your home to provide shade and reduce the amount of sunlight that reaches your walls and roof.

One common mistake Anchorage residents make is setting their AC too low. Cranking the AC down to 65 degrees Fahrenheit might seem appealing, but it’s incredibly inefficient and can lead to health problems. Aim for a temperature of 72-75 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll save energy and reduce the strain on your AC unit.

Another pitfall is neglecting regular maintenance. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC unit to work harder and consume more energy. Clean or replace your air filters every month during the summer. Schedule an annual tune-up with a qualified technician to ensure your AC unit is running efficiently and to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

Consider the impact on local wildlife. The increased energy demand from air conditioning can strain Anchorage’s power grid, which relies heavily on natural gas. Burning natural gas releases greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and potentially impacting the habitats of animals like moose, bears, and salmon. By reducing your AC usage and choosing energy-efficient options, you can help protect these iconic Alaskan species.

Let’s be real: completely eliminating AC in Anchorage isn’t realistic for everyone. But by making informed choices about AC efficiency, humidity control, refrigerant management, and alternative cooling strategies, Anchorage residents can minimize their environmental impact while staying comfortable during the increasingly warm summers. It’s about finding a balance between personal comfort and environmental responsibility.

Think of it this way: every degree you raise your thermostat, every tree you plant for shade, every efficient appliance you choose, is a small step towards preserving the Alaskan wilderness for future generations. It’s a collective effort, and it starts with individual choices. Let’s keep Anchorage cool, but let’s do it responsibly.