Beating the Heat Without Beating Your Wallet

The heat is on this dry season in the Philippines. As temperatures rise, so does the cost of staying cool. Electric fans spin all day. Air Conditioners run non-stop. The electricity bill? It follows right behind.

But how can we stay cool without draining our wallets?

Here are 3 simple ways to do it:

1. Let the Air Flow Naturally

Open windows during the early morning or late evening. Let the cooler air enter your home before the heat kicks in. Use screen doors or mesh windows to keep insects out while letting air pass through. This reduces the need for electric fans and air conditioning during off-peak hours.

Try to keep doors open between rooms too. Air that flows freely helps prevent heat from staying in one spot.

2. Make Use of Curtains and Shade

Sunlight brings heat. Block it out. Use blackout curtains or thick drapes on windows facing the sun. Hang old bedsheets or tarps outside as makeshift shade for windows or patios. Even indoor plants near windows can help absorb some heat.

3. Choose Appliances That Save Energy

If you must use an aircon, set it to 25°C to 27°C. This uses less power than setting it to 18°C. Clean the air filter weekly to make sure the unit runs smoothly. Dirty filters make the machine work harder.

Switch to LED lights if you haven’t yet. Incandescent bulbs give off unnecessary heat and waste energy. Unplug unused appliances—some still draw power even when turned off.

Bonus tip: Cook outside when possible. Using the stove or oven inside adds extra heat to your home. Grill in the backyard or prepare meals that don’t need cooking. (ASC)