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Heat wave cooling, health, and energy efficiency guidance

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2026-09-02 06:43 UTC → 2026-09-09 20:28 UTC · added ~~removed~~

As heat waves ~~persist,~~ persist and El Niño effects drive demand for cooling, experts continue to refine guidance on passive cooling, ventilation, and energy efficiency. A central theme remains the superiority of external shading; architect Julia Ayuso recommends tools like ‘Alicante blinds’ to block radiation before it reaches the glass. ~~Architect Juan Goñilo notes that west-facing windows are particularly problematic due to the low angle of the afternoon sun.~~ Ventilation timing is critical, with experts advising opening windows only when outdoor air is cooler than indoor ~~air—typically at dawn, evening, or night.~~ air. Regarding air conditioning, specialists recommend settings between ~~24°C~~ 23°C and ~~28°C~~ 25°C to optimize ~~inverter technology.~~ efficiency. Energy consultant Alex Bermudez ~~adds that maintaining a temperature between 23°C and 25°C is key, noting~~ notes that every degree lowered below the target can increase energy consumption by 6% to ~~8%. Bermudez~~ 8%, but suggests that running a unit throughout the night has a minimal impact on electricity bills, comparing the cost to ‘a single cup of coffee.’ In Brazil, experts from Energisa Rondônia add that regular filter cleaning and keeping doors and windows closed during operation are vital for efficiency. Other energy-saving habits include turning off fans in unoccupied rooms and consolidating the use of heavy appliances. While air conditioning provides life-saving benefits—a study in Nature Health indicates these systems prevent more than 5,000 heat-related deaths annually in the United States—they also contribute to the urban heat island effect by transferring heat from indoors to the outdoors. Innovative cooling alternatives ~~are~~ also ~~emerging. In Zurich, a renovated building utilizes a~~ include dual-purpose ~~system~~ systems, such as those in Zurich, where ~~approximately~~ 20°C water flows through aluminum lamellas ~~in convectors~~ to cool air via fans, avoiding condensation. This renovation, which included improved facades and windows, reduced district heating consumption by two-thirds. While most heat pumps can provide cooling, ground-source or groundwater models are noted for high efficiency. fans. Experts suggest that underfloor, wall, or ceiling systems are often preferable to traditional radiators for effective cooling.

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