Ancient Method for Cooling Your Home Without Air Conditioning: Works Even at Temperatures Above 35°C
Heatwaves up to 39 degrees and a red DHMZ alert are on the horizon, bringing traditional cooling methods back into focus.
Heatwaves up to 39 degrees and a red DHMZ alert are on the horizon, bringing traditional cooling methods back into focus.
Croatia is facing extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach 38 degrees today and 39 degrees tomorrow. As a result, interest in proven, traditional methods of cooling homes without electricity is on the rise. The State Hydrometeorological Institute (DHMZ) has issued a red alert for Zagreb and the Zagreb region for the next three days due to extremely dangerous weather, as reported by Zagreb.info on August 4, 2026.
Under such conditions, air conditioners run non-stop, which will lead to high electricity bills for many. However, in Mediterranean countries where summer heat is a daily occurrence, simple tricks have been passed down through generations to help maintain a comfortable temperature indoors without any devices.
The key trick cherished by many Italians, especially in southern Italy, is to completely close windows and external shutters or blinds during the hottest part of the day. The goal is to prevent direct sunlight from heating up the walls and interior space. Air conditioning is only turned on when temperatures exceed 35 degrees.
Energy efficiency experts, as reported by Kurir.rs, advise keeping blinds and curtains drawn on windows exposed to the sun, especially between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. when solar radiation is strongest. This method is not unique to Italy; in Dalmatia, it's rare to see open shutters or raised blinds during the day. Windows are only opened after 7 p.m. when the maestral wind blows, naturally cooling the home.
When outdoor temperatures drop in the evening, windows on opposite sides of the house are opened to create a draft. Cooler air enters, while warm air accumulated during the day exits. This simple trick requires no investment and has been passed down from generation to generation.
Another old trick involves placing a slightly damp cotton curtain or sheet in front of an open window. As air passes through the damp fabric, water evaporation creates a sense of freshness near the window. Although this method cannot significantly lower the temperature of the entire room or replace an air conditioner, many use it to alleviate the feeling of stuffiness. It's important that the fabric is only slightly damp to avoid creating excessive humidity in the room.
In addition to closing windows and using damp fabrics, it's recommended to avoid using the oven, clothes dryer, and other appliances that generate extra heat. During the night, when outdoor temperatures drop, ventilating again helps cool the air in the apartment or house before the next hot day.
While none of these tricks can fully replace an air conditioner during extreme heat, combining them can make your home more comfortable, with lower energy consumption and no additional costs.
