Greener, More Eco-Friendly Future

Keeping cool in this humidity is necessary, yet detrimental to the environment. But a shift in human habits and breakthrough technologies may just change the tide towards a greener, more eco-friendly future.

- Aric Ting

FANS VS. AIR CONDITIONERS

In South-east Asia, the heat and humidity are ever-present and sometimes even unyielding, making cooling solutions like a fan or an air conditioner a necessity. Of course, each cooling solution has its merits and drawbacks.

Air conditioners are the best appliance to combat against the potent heat. They do, however, consume up to 10 times as much power as a conventional fan. As such, it is neither the most economical option nor the greenest solution to cooling. Though modern technology has mitigated some of that problem, there is still much to do.

The two appliances cannot be more different. Simpler in design and function, fans simply move cool or warm air around. Because of their simple mechanics, they are inherently more economical to run with usage numbers air conditioners can never match. However, they also have a limited scope of use due to poor temperature management and a tendency to recirculate warm air. Better suited to open spaces with sufficient airflow, they ventilate more than they regulate.

KEEPING COOL THE ECO WAY

During the hotter months, it may seem like air conditioning is the best option. Keep your cool and follow these passive cooling tips before you make the switch.

CLOSE THE BLINDS

Although this may seem like common sense, with modern interiors designed for natural light to flood in, blinds are used less often than desired. As a result, up to 30 per cent of unwanted heat in a home comes from the windows. The simple act of pulling the blinds or installing some will prevent your home from becoming a greenhouse and save you an average of 7 per cent in your electricity bill.