The mercury is touching 44 degrees ( Celsius ) and it is becoming impossible to bear. Nerves are frayed as people deal with traffic snarls, power outages and work pressures. It is still just the beginning of May and the worst is ahead of us. Whether it is the office or my home I have found a few simple remedies to beat the heatwave and find a sanctuary of 'cool'. What are your solutions ?
Airconditioning has become a necessity rather than a luxury and while it can bring the temperature down it sends your electricity bills flying through the roof. So, there are a few ways you can bring the BSES meter down a bit without compensating in buckets of sweat.
If you can't afford awnings put grandma's heavy chics in the balcony/verandah. They will keep the heat out. Using reflective film on the windows (especially west and east ) will bring the Celsius down.You could also consider tinted glass, although this would turn into a disadvantage in the winter.
Windows--the Vista to a lot of heat. Deal with them and watch your house get cooler instantly. Keep shades drawn in the west to keep out the afternoon sun. You want light and fresh air ( ahem !!..in Delhi ??) then focus on the windows in the north .
Double lined curtains combined with white shades will take away some of the perspiration. If you want ventilation do it at night. During the day keep the windows and doors slammed shut. Fans are a must as they assist in ventilation and blow the heat off :)
The right kind of airconditioning is also important. Check the energy efficiency ratio ( should be above 10 ). Ceiling insulation is a great way to reduce the temperature. In the olden days, earthen pots and clay lining did the trick in most homes. In apartments insulating the ceiling may not be an option but even a few ventilators can help.
Use plants and trees in all directions except the north. This really really helps. Say no to incandescent light and opt for flourescent white to keep the heat away and reduce your energy consumption. Avoid using washing machines and high load electrical gadgets during the day. Spend least amount of time in the kitchen during the day. Early morning and late evening are the best time to indulge your culinary genius.
I have discovered that the best way to cool your mind in this maddening heat is to have some kind of running water source in the home...a pond, a fountain...something like that. It will soothe your nerves and even misting yourself periodically with cool water works wonders.
Eating the right kind of food is also important . Not just from a dietary perspective. Certain kinds of food have psychologically cooling effects !! Like salads, fresh juice, fruits, yogurt etc. Enrolling in a yoga class can be as effective as a daily swim at the club. The mind needs to lose some heat as well.
I also find that small aesthetic additions go a long way in tackling the Celsius. Fresh flowers on your bedside table. Cool blue sheets. Cheerful artwork in soothing colours. Small doses of cool.
0 comments:
Post a Comment