Summer is at its zenith. The scorching heat and rising temperatures have badly interrupted the daily routine of people. There are many ways to beat the summer heat out of which some are mechanical and some of them are natural. Among the prevalent mechanical systems installation of water based Cooling and gas based Air conditioners.
Both systems though provide respite from heat and help bring down the temperature to desired level, but they are not environment friendly. Desert or room coolers consume water which is day by day becoming scarce commodity and Air conditioners run on Gas which is detrimental to our Ozone cover which protects us from radiation. We shall suggest some ways which are eco-friendly and help bringing down the temperature.
1. Plant trees and vines: These green-house coolers shade your home’s exterior and keep sunlight out of window. Plant them by west facing wall where the sun is strongest. Climbing vines are good outside insulators. The plant and trees grown in terrace and balcony also act as an insulator.
2. White lime wash: If you are living in an independent house or an apartment situated on the top most floor of the building, then this tip will help you bring down the internal temperature. All you have to do is to lime wash your terrace. This will work as a reflective layer and keep the slab cool throughout summers.
3. Layers of stacked up straw: Another eco-friendly way to keep terrace and internal environment of the house cool. Straw is a natural insulator of heat and lets the terrace remain cool. You can even put a layer of plastic gardening sheets and stack the bundles of hay on top. Either time set a sprinkler or wet the hay three to four times a day to obtain desired results.
4. Cross Ventilation: Keep as many windows/ ventilators open as possible, during early mornings and late evenings. Around 5 am- 8 am and 7 pm- 10 pm. During this time of the day, the air gets replenished without all the harsh heat from the sun. Do not forget to put mosquito nets on them,
5. Use of light colors: In summers, use lighter colours for the interiors. Eg- Bed sheets, Sofa, Curtains etc. Using dark colours will absorb much more heat. Use neutral colours like- whites, cream, peach, sky blue etc.
6. Use Bamboo blinds: Using blinds along with curtains again acts like an insulator to heat from the sun. They can be installed in any existing window, and they look beautiful!
The above tips plus judicious use of electronic gadgets like Refrigerator, Microwave and Heaters etc. during the day will also keep the environment of your house as per your liking.
