During our travels through the Internet we stumbled onto the Alt Guide section of Supernaturale, a blog dedicated to DIY culture. We appreciated their article on old-school techniques for getting by without air conditioning, including simple strategies like "cook outside" and "embrace siesta."
We've been making due with fans so far this summer, and we've found that little things like drinking lots of icewater make a big difference. Not everyone can get by without AC, but if you can, it actually feels good to live in summer mode with all the windows open.
I think this is my first entirely air-conditioner free summer since I was a kid and I'm surprised at how much I like it. I'll enjoy it until we have a stretch longer that 3 days of 90-ish heat and then I'll be cranky! But a nice damp washcloth worn on the back of the neck really helps!
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I want my air-conditioning! Today according to the radio it was 104 down here with the heat index. It's hot and miserably humid in Houston in the summer. Imagine living in a sauna for 3 months of the year. Plus side - never needing lotion or lip balm until you go north. You won't dry out here in H-town! Why anyone moved here in the days of voluminous clothing and no electricity amazes me.
view BonivaGScott's profile
I set my thermostat at a high temp, around 78 degrees, and supplement with lots of ceiling fans. It works well for me, though the heat only bothers me when it gets into the 90s and humid, and then I need air!
view josie's profile