As the Philippine summer heat kicks in, staying cool at home can feel like a never-ending battle—especially with electricity rates soaring! But don’t worry, kababayan! You don’t need to rely solely on air conditioning to beat the heat. With a few smart, tipid-friendly tricks, you can keep your home refreshingly cool while saving energy and money.

The Importance of Keeping Your Home Cool Without AC

Electricity in the Philippines isn’t cheap, and air conditioners are among the biggest energy guzzlers in your home. Relying too much on them means skyrocketing electric bills and adding environmental strain. Not to mention, constantly staying in air-conditioned rooms can lead to dry skin and sore throats. Using natural and energy-efficient cooling strategies, you can stay comfortable while keeping your budget intact and doing your part for Mother Earth.

Here are some ways to keep your home cool:

Close Your Curtains and Blinds 

If you’ve ever walked into a home without curtains in the afternoon, you know how scorching it can get. The sun’s heat quickly turns your home into an oven! Invest in a blackout or reflective curtains to block direct sunlight, especially on east and west windows. You can also use locally available bamboo shades (sawali) for a more native touch.

Use Fans Strategically 

In many Filipino households, electric fans are a staple. But are you using them the right way?

• Ceiling fans: Set them to rotate counterclockwise to push cooler air downward.
• Box fans: Place them near windows in the evening to draw in the evening breeze.
• DIY air cooler: Place a bowl of ice or a frozen bottle before a fan for an instant air conditioner-like effect!

Improve Air Circulation 

Proper airflow is key to keeping your bahay, as they say, presko. Open your windows and doors early in the morning and late at night when the air is cooler. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows.

Swap Out Incandescent Bulbs 

Traditional light bulbs emit a surprising amount of heat. Switch to LED or CFL bulbs, which produce less heat and use less electricity. A simple swap can make a noticeable difference!

Cook Smart 

If you’ve ever cooked sinigang or adobo in the middle of the day, you know how it turns your kitchen into a furnace. Try these hacks:

• Use a rice cooker, air fryer, or turbo broiler instead of a gas stove.
• Cook early in the morning or in the evening when it’s cooler.
• Eat no-cook meals like ensaladang talong or kankong salad.
• Go for ihaw-ihaw! Cooking outdoors keeps the heat outside where it belongs.

Add More Indoor Plants 

Tita-approved hack! Houseplants like snake plants, ferns, or rubber trees absorb heat and improve air quality. Plus, they add a fresh, relaxing vibe to your home.

Use Breathable Bedding and Fabrics 

Ditch heavy blankets and opt for lightweight cotton or linen sheets that wick away moisture and keep you cool. If you overheat at night, consider a cooling pillow or mattress topper.

Keep Electronics in Check 

Did you know that keeping appliances plugged in still generates heat and adds to your electricity bill? Unplug your TV, chargers, and other gadgets when not in use to keep the house cooler and save energy.

DIY a Cooling Mist or Spray

Here’s a simple Pinoy hack: Mix water with a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle and mist yourself for an instant cooling effect. You can lightly spray curtains and bedsheets with chilled water to freshen up your room.

Make Use of Cool Flooring 

In many Filipino homes, tile and cement floors are common and naturally cool to the touch. For a quick refresh, walk around barefoot or place a damp towel under your feet while working or watching TV!

Stay Cool, Stay Tipid!

Beating the heat in the Philippines doesn’t have to mean blasting the aircon all day. With these simple, budget-friendly tricks, you can enjoy a cool, presko home while keeping your electricity bill in check. Try these hacks and enjoy a chill and breezy summer!