In order to reduce summer electricity consumption, spending the hot hours in a cooler environment without using electricity as much as possible is key to achieving energy conservation.
In the old days in Japan, certain effective customs were employed to reduce the blistering summer heat and humidity. Now is a most apt time to revive these traditional practices to achieve energy conservation.
Planting summer greenery such as bitter gourds or "Morning Glory flowers (ASAGAO in Japanese)" outside of the house windows will grow and eventually create a natural shade and heat barrier. In addition, evaporation of the water inside the plants will achieve a desired cooling effect.
Sprinkling water on the balcony or garden in the morning and/or early evening will reduce heat via water evaporation. In particular, water sprinkling onto concrete and asphalt bases is effective since these materials have heat absorption characteristics.
Placing rattan/bamboo blinds, curtains, and blinds at windows and/or doors can prevent unwanted sunlight. Placing the rattan/bamboo blinds outside the window is particularly effective since they cut the sunlight outside thus preventing the heat getting inside.
Straw/rattan mats and carpets are much more comfortable to sit and lie down on given their uneven surface which absorbs and as a result emanates much less heat than regular carpeting or wooden floors.
In order to reduce the simultaneous use of multiple air conditioners, make an effort to spend more time together in a "family room" of everyone's choice. This will also contribute to a reduction in the number of lamps used.
The water in plants and soil from lawns or other greenery planted in the garden or balcony will prevent excessive temperature increases,
Placing "heat shield film (shanetsu film in Japanese)" onto your home windows is effective in preventing temperature increases. This will also contribute to reduced air conditioning use. "Heat Shield Film" can be picked up at certain large hardware or home appliance centers.
Adjust yourself to the temperature by selecting materials with characteristic such as sweat-absorbent, quick drying, and breathable. These will contribute greatly to making your life comfortable.
Hats and parasols effectively shield the body from glaring sun rays.
When selecting bedding material, pick materials that have high sweat-absorbent and quick drying qualities such as rush or linen. These will contribute greatly to your comfort during the sleeping hours.
Carefully control your surrounding environment by employing the sound of wind bells, choosing soothing colors for interior accessories and using aromatic scents that will contribute to one's emotional and physical well-being as well as heat alleviation.
Please click here to see “How electricity is used in summer”
Please click here to see “How to save on electricity in summer by using electrical appliances effectively”
© Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc.
