5 architect-backed tips to keep your home cool this summer

The summer heat in the Philippines is intense, but there are small changes you can make at home to help lessen its impact.

Earlier, state weather bureau PAGASA said the temperature in Metro Manila is expected to rise up to 35°C to 39°C in April and 35.5°C to 37.6°C in May.

On Wednesday’s episode of “Unang Hirit,” architect Dax Augustus shared five practical tips to keep your house cool amid the sweat-inducing weather.

1. Find a good spot for an electric fan

Proper placement of your electric fan can make a big difference in airflow.

“Dapat aware tayo kung saan nanggagaling yung natural wind direction kasi paminsan maling direction naman, walang pumapasok na hangin,” Dax said.

2. Make sure bedrooms have at least two windows

Having more than one window allows air to circulate better inside a room.

“Ideally, dalawa ang bintana kasi ang dynamics ng hangin, may papasukan at may lalabasan,” he said, comparing a room to a closed container.

“’Pag pumasok ’yan at napuno, wala na ring papasukan na hangin kasi puno na siya. So ’yung hangin sa loob, nakaipon lang, kulob na siya,” he added.

3. Stick to white or light-colored paint

Color plays a role in how much heat your home absorbs.

“Maraming factor ’yan kahit sa damit, kasi naa-absorb ng heat,” Dax said. “Darker colors nag-aabsorb ng heat radiation.”

“Ideally, your house, kung gusto mo mas cooler, paint it white or light kasi it reflects radiation around 70 to 90%,” he added. “Ang laking factor noon, and it can make the house two to five°C cooler.”

4. Keep windows clear of obstructions

Blocked windows can prevent proper airflow and reduce natural ventilation.

“Alisin ang mga nakaharang sa bintana para hindi mabawasan ang natural ventilation,” Dax said.

5. Don’t underestimate the power of plants

Adding greenery around your home can help reduce heat.

“Maaaring maglagay ng halaman sa tapat ng bintana para makatulong sa pagbabawas ng init,” he said.

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