Simplified adjustment in my living room resulted in a noticeable decrease in warmth during a heatwave
In the sweltering summer months, air conditioning can be a lifesaver. But for those looking to save on energy costs or simply want a more eco-friendly approach, there are several effective methods to cool down your living room without relying on an AC unit.
One simple yet effective trick is to use fans with ice or frozen bottles. By positioning a bucket of ice or frozen plastic bottles in front of a fan, you can chill the air as it passes over the ice, circulating a cooler breeze around the room. Covering frozen bottles with a damp cloth before placing them in front of the fan enhances cooling by evaporation.
Another strategy is to hang wet towels close to a fan. As the water absorbs heat from the air while it dries, it helps cool the air through evaporation, creating a refreshing environment.
Maximising airflow and ventilation is another key aspect. Position one fan facing an open window to draw in cooler air, and another fan at a different window or doorway to expel warm air, creating a cross-breeze effect for natural ventilation.
Keeping appliances and lights off when not in use is also important, as electrical devices and lighting generate heat. Blocking out sunlight during the hottest parts of the day by closing curtains or drapes, preferably with reflective light-colored lining, can also help reduce solar heat gain indoors.
If humidity is not too high, small evaporative coolers can be used to cool air by passing it over water-saturated materials, providing a few degrees of cooling with minimal energy use.
For those seeking a more high-tech solution, the FlexBreeze Pro Mist fan is available for purchase at Amazon for US$199. This versatile fan operates corded or cordless and comes with a portable misting tank. It can spray mist both indoors and outdoors, and can be used as a pedestal fan or a table fan. The FlexBreeze Pro Mist fan has a running time of up to 24 hours, depending on the speed setting.
Small changes, such as removing plush, oversized cushions and throws from the seating area, can have a significant impact on cooling down a living room. Rolling up floor rugs, especially in the evenings, can also help reduce heat, especially in rooms with hardwood or tiled floors. In summer, it is suggested to roll up heavier rugs or replace them with lightweight flatweave styles.
Finally, a NASA-approved plant hack for cooling a home for free involves placing certain plants around your living space. Certain plants, such as snake plants and spider plants, can absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen at night, helping to keep the air cool and fresh.
By implementing these tips, you can significantly cool your living room without an AC unit, making your home a more comfortable and energy-efficient space.
To make your home a more eco-friendly and energy-efficient living space, consider employing some interior-design tricks such as using fans with ice or frozen bottles, hanging wet towels near fans for evaporative cooling, or maximizing airflow and ventilation. Additionally, you can incorporate lifestyle changes like keeping appliances and lights off when not in use, blocking out sunlight during the day, and using small evaporative coolers or high-tech options like the FlexBreeze Pro Mist fan. Moreover, embracing certain plants, like snake plants and spider plants, as per NASA-approved methods, can help keep your air cool and fresh.
