Beat the heat

Summer's back. So, it's a good time to bring out the lemonade, and tie up with the local nariyalwala for your regular supply of coconuts. Applying for swimming pool memberships might not be a bad idea either. The most difficult problem is dealing with the heat indoors. One cannot keep the air-conditioning switched on for the entire day.

 Cross Ventilation

Ceiling fans are a good option as they are available in all sizes and are easy to install. The fans would be ineffective without proper cross ventilation in the house. Opposite windows should be opened to improve cross ventilation. If there is an adjoining bathroom to the room, the door and bathroom window can be left open to improve cross ventilation. Another option can be of fixing mosquito nets on the windows which will allow one to keep the window open during the nights too.

 Water Bodies

Placing water bodies in the form of fish tanks or aquatic plants around the house can also produce a much desired cooling effect. Common feng-shui plants like the bamboo palm require to be partially submerged in water. Floating candles placed in a bowl of water can be a great centre piece for a coffee or dining table.

 Screens and Awnings

Since the Vedic era, khus-khus (poppy seeds) has been used for cooling spaces. Khus-Khus soaked overnight and tied tightly in a muslin cloth, hung near the window cools the air entering the space. It also gives the air a pleasant fragrance. A slightly un-aesthetic method is drying wet clothes outside the window to cool the air entering in.

 One can also construct awnings or chajjas over one's windows to block direct sunlight entering the room. Air conditioners with awnings or shaded by trees work more efficiently. An alternative to constructing an awning is Venetian Blinds. They are available in every possible material ranging from wood to various metal finishes and can be incorporated into any interior decoration style.

 Keep the kitchen cool

Due to the constant burning of the stove in the kitchen, it can be the hottest space in a house. On hot days one can try using alternative cooking appliances like the microwave or grills. One can also experiment with cold buffet cuisines like salads, dips, breads, pickles and relishes. The air circulation in the kitchen can be improved by installing an exhaust fan.

 Plants

Agar aap paachvi pass se tez hai, then you will remember the process of 'transpiration' taught in school, where plants release water vapour throughout the day. Common house plants placed around the room can cool the space considerably. Results from NASA laboratories have shown that the following ten house plants produce the best cooling effect:

 1) Areca Palm

2) Lady Palm

3) Bamboo Palm

4) Rubber Plant

5) Jade or Money Plant

6) English ivy

7) Dwarf Date Palm

8) Ficus Alli

9) Boston Fern

10) Peace Lilly

 All the above plants are available in local nurseries. Ensure that there are not too many plants in a room as it may lead to growth of mould on walls due to the high water vapour and increase in the humidity levels in the room..