During the scorching summer days, you feel like switching on the air conditioner frequently, and it becomes more of a necessity on humid days. But have you ever thought of using natural air conditioners instead?
While air conditioning technology has improved significantly, there is no denying it leads to an inflated energy bill in residential setups and offices. It also eventually adds to the carbon footprint. So does that mean people should not use air conditioners and suffer amidst the humid heat?
The solution lies in using natural alternatives, say the experts. You can effectively use certain types of trees and plants as natural air conditioners so that it is not necessary to use air conditioning at home or the workplace.
Why use trees and plants as natural air conditioners?
Plants are an excellent alternative to typical air conditioner devices if you aim to reduce your energy bill and carbon footprint. You may resort to using air coolers, which would reduce energy bills, but electricity will still be required. When you resort to using plant-based natural air conditioners, it is better for the environment, and your energy bill goes down at the same time.
You have to be aware of using the correct type of trees and plants in this regard, and strategic positioning of the plants will also be required. Trees and plants are laden with an air-cooling system called evapotranspiration. They lose water through the leaves by a process known as transpiration. It happens more when the trees are exposed to high temperatures and direct sunlight. The moisture the trees and plants release cools down the adjacent regions for some time.
What you need to know about using trees and plants as natural air conditioners
Choose trees that lose their leaves
When choosing trees, select deciduous (broadleaf) trees that lose their leaves in autumn compared to coniferous (evergreen) trees with needles instead of leaves, and don’t lose them in the fall. This will help to block the sun’s rays during the hot summer months but allow the sun’s rays through during the cold winter months.
Interrupting solar radiation
You may choose those trees with large canopy-like leaves. This will block significant amounts of sun rays in the summer and absorb the heat. The foliage brings large shadows and aid in reducing overall heat.
Checking the location
Planting trees randomly in the backyard or side of the house will not cut the ice here! You have to think of the locations from a practical angle. Figure out which is the east side and areas where sun rays fall for the most extended duration. It is also necessary to know the wind’s usual direction.
Variety of trees
Just planting large-sized trees with large leaves may not be necessary if cooling the house is in mind. You have to plant a wide variety of trees. The big trees with canopy-like leaves soak in sun rays but the smaller ones offer shade to the soil and prevent it from getting too hot. You can plant overhanging large shrubs and leafy trees along the driveway for a natural cover.
Covering the fences
You can use vines or climbing plants to cover the fencing around your house. These will coat the fence or boundary wall and protect it from overheating. It will also augment the aesthetic appeal of the house exterior.
Pruning and trimming
While using canopy cover and using leafy trees to trap and reduce heat is fine, do not overdo things. There should be enough space around the house for airflow and to prevent access by climbing animals and insects. For that, you will have to trim and prune plants and trees that occasionally grow bushy or too dense.
Be patient
To gain from using trees and plants as natural air conditioners at home, you need to plan carefully and be patient. Trees and plants will take time to grow and it may take some time for you to feel their cooling effect. However, the efforts and waiting are worth it. You will also gain by inhaling pure, less polluted air. Plants give out oxygen while soaking in carbon dioxide and harmful gasses.
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