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How to Beat the Heat on a Budget
Summer in the Philippines means scorching temperatures and humid days, making it hard to stay comfortable at home. While turning on the air conditioner all day seems like the best solution, it’s not always practical especially with rising electricity costs. But don’t worry! There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to keep your home cool without breaking the bank.
Here’s how you can beat the heat while saving on energy:
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Use a Rechargeable Fan for Constant Airflow
A good fan can make a huge difference in keeping your home cool. The Firefly 12" Rechargeable Desk Fan with Emergency Solar Panel and Lamps is a great option because it provides strong airflow with three-speed settings (low, mid, and high) while staying energy-efficient. Plus, it comes with a built-in LED lamp and a 5V output port that can charge mobile phones and small devices, making it extra useful in emergencies.
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Get an Air Cooler Instead of an Air Conditioner
If you need something more powerful than a fan but don’t want to pay for an air conditioner, an air cooler is a great alternative. The Dowell Air Cooler ARC23D has a 5-liter water capacity and an ice pack for extra cooling. Unlike a regular fan, this air cooler uses a honeycomb filter to circulate cool air, making it feel much fresher.  With only 65 watts of power consumption, this air cooler is a cost-efficient way to stay comfortable without skyrocketing your electricity bill.
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Keep Hydrated with Cold Water Readily Available
Drinking enough water is one of the easiest ways to regulate your body temperature. The Asahi Hot and Cold Water Dispenser WD-104 ensures you always have access to ice-cold water on hot days, with a cooling capacity of 2 liters per hour at temperatures as low as 10°C. It also features a child lock function for safety and a storage cabinet for added convenience.
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Block the Heat with Curtains or Blinds
Sunlight streaming through your windows can quickly heat your home. To reduce indoor temperatures, use light-colored curtains or blackout blinds to block out direct sunlight. Keep your curtains and windows closed during the hottest hours of the day and open them in the evening to let in cooler air.
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Switch to LED Lights to Reduce Heat
Incandescent and fluorescent bulbs generate a lot of heat, making your home feel warmer. Replacing them with LED bulbs can help reduce heat while lowering electricity costs. The ACE LED Bulb A60 9W E27 6500K Daylight 6-Pack is a great choice because it uses high-quality LED chips that provide powerful lighting with no flickering. These bulbs have a long lifespan, are shatterproof, and are designed with efficient heat dissipation to prevent overheating.
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Use Ice and Water for Instant Cooling
A simple way to cool down a small space is by placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan. As the fan blows over the ice, it creates a cooling mist that helps lower the temperature in the room. You can also place damp washcloths in the freezer and use them on your neck, wrists, and feet for quick relief from the heat.
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Limit the Use of Heat-Generating Appliances
Electronics and kitchen appliances generate heat, so try to minimize their use during the day. Instead of using the oven or stove, opt for no-cook meals like salads, sandwiches, or cold fruit bowls. Unplugging unused electronics and switching off lights when not needed can also help keep your home cooler.
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Improve Air Circulation
Good ventilation can help reduce indoor heat. Create cross-ventilation by opening two opposite windows to allow air to flow through the house. If possible, use a window fan or place a regular fan near an open window to push hot air out and bring cooler air in.
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Wear Lightweight, Breathable Clothing
The clothes you wear can also affect how hot you feel. Opt for loose, cotton fabrics that allow air to circulate around your body. Avoid tight, synthetic materials that trap heat and make you feel even warmer.
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Take Cold Showers and Use Cooling Towels
A cold shower is one of the fastest ways to lower your body temperature. If you don’t want to shower multiple times a day, use a damp towel on pulse points like your neck, wrists, and feet to stay cool.
You don’t need to rely on air conditioning to survive the summer heat. By using energy-efficient cooling appliances, blocking out heat, improving ventilation, and making small lifestyle changes, you can enjoy a cooler home without spending a fortune on electricity.
Find all these cooling solutions and more at ACE Hardware! Check out the nearest store here: ACE Hardware Store Locator
Or shop online:
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