I recently came across an interesting tip online about improving the effectiveness of air conditioning. The suggestion was to place two simple items in the room: two buckets of water and a wet towel. Initially, I was skeptical about the impact of this method, but after trying it out, I was pleasantly surprised by the noticeable improvement it brought about.

1. How to Do It
All you need are two clean buckets, which you fill with water, a bit of white vinegar, and a capful of toilet cleaner. This not only boosts the activity of water molecules but also kills bacteria and eliminates odors. Place one bucket on a windowsill or a higher surface and the other on the floor. Soak the towel in the water, wring it out until it’s no longer dripping, and place it on the upper bucket, letting the lower one collect the water. The next morning, you’ll find that the water has flowed from the upper bucket to the lower one, and the room’s air will feel cooler and more pleasant due to the increased humidity.
Increasing humidity in the air not only helps alleviate dry skin but also slows down the body’s water loss. When the air is sufficiently humid, the air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard, resulting in reduced electricity consumption. Running air conditioners during the summer can be expensive, so this method not only provides comfort but also helps cut down on those monthly electricity bills.
2. Tips for Energy Savings When Using Air Conditioning
To further reduce energy consumption when using air conditioning, consider the following helpful tips:
– Avoid frequently turning the air conditioner on and off: When the air conditioner starts up, the compressor consumes three to five times more electricity than it does during normal operation. Repeatedly turning it on and off can also lead to compressor failure and reduce its lifespan by three to five years. If you’re stepping out for a short while, instead of turning it off, increase the temperature by 2 degrees Celsius.
– Set a timer to turn off the air conditioner before sleeping: Many people like to keep the air conditioner on throughout the night, but you can set a timer to turn it off before you sleep to prevent catching a cold and save on electricity costs. This not only protects your health but also reduces your monthly expenses.
– Choose an air conditioner with a good energy efficiency rating: When purchasing an air conditioner, pay attention to its energy efficiency rating. Opt for one with a first-class energy-saving standard, as it will cool effectively and consume less electricity. While the initial cost may be higher, you’ll save a significant amount in the long run.
3. 7 Tips to Stay Healthy When Using Air Conditioning
– Regularly clean the air filter
Air conditioner filters can get dirty quickly and become a breeding ground for bacteria and dust if not cleaned regularly. A clogged filter can block cold air from escaping, making you feel uncomfortable and increasing your electricity bill. Clean the filter thoroughly every two weeks to ensure optimal performance.
– Maintain humidity levels
Air conditioners not only cool the air but also remove moisture. If the air becomes too dry, you may experience dry throat, cracked skin, and nosebleeds. Aim to keep the humidity levels between 40% and 60%. If you don’t have a humidifier, you can use the simple method of placing two buckets of water and a towel in the room to increase humidity naturally.
– Set the temperature to 26℃
To conserve energy, avoid setting the temperature too low. A setting of 26℃-28℃ is ideal, providing comfort while minimizing electricity usage.
– Avoid drastic temperature differences
Sudden shifts between outdoor and indoor temperatures can be stressful for your body. When it’s 40℃ outside, refrain from immediately setting your air conditioner to 16℃. Instead, gradually increase the temperature to allow your body to adjust and avoid putting strain on your cardiovascular system.
– Ventilate regularly
Don’t keep windows and doors closed for extended periods when using air conditioning. This can make the indoor air stuffy and uncomfortable. Open the windows for 10-15 minutes every 3 hours to improve air quality, adjust humidity, and reduce unpleasant odors.
– Avoid direct airflow
Direct cold air blowing on your body, especially sensitive areas like the neck, knees, and ankles, can be harmful to your health. Instead of directing the airflow at your body, adjust it upward to create a natural cool breeze, which will effectively cool the room while saving electricity.
– Create a spacious environment
Lastly, maintain a spacious and airy environment in the room. Use plants or other moisture-absorbing items to keep the air fresh and comfortable.
The Air Hostess’ Banana: A Surprising In-flight Essential!
It’s often overlooked, but many flight attendants carry a banana with them when they board a plane. Beyond being a convenient snack, bananas offer surprising health benefits, helping these professionals stay energized and alert during long-haul flights. So, what’s the real reason behind this curious habit?