Why you should keep a bucket of water in your AC room this summer

One common yet often overlooked tip is placing a bucket or bowl of water in your AC room. This simple practice is said to help counteract the dryness caused by prolonged air conditioning use. 

But how effective is it really?

Dr Shivakumar K, MD, Respiratory Medicine and chief consultant pulmonologist at Kauvery Hospital, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, tells indianexpress.com, “Air conditioners tend to reduce humidity in a room by drawing out moisture as they cool the air. Placing a bucket or bowl of water in the room can help introduce some moisture back into the air through a natural process called evaporation. Placing water in a pan would make evaporation faster. While it is not as powerful as a humidifier, this method can offer modest relief in smaller or moderately cooled spaces, especially when the air feels noticeably dry.”

It is a simple, low-cost way to help maintain a more balanced environment and may slightly reduce the discomfort caused by excessively dry air, particularly during prolonged use of air conditioning, the doctor admits.

Can dry indoor air from constant AC use lead to any long-term health issues?

According to Dr Shivakumar, prolonged exposure to very dry air “may aggravate existing respiratory conditions, especially in individuals with asthma or chronic bronchitis.” He adds that dry indoor environments can irritate the airways, cause a scratchy throat, or make it harder to breathe comfortably for sensitive individuals.

For the skin, constant dryness can lead to issues like flaking, itchiness, and in some cases, exacerbation of conditions such as eczema. “The nasal passages may also become dry, increasing the risk of nosebleeds or reducing the effectiveness of the body’s natural defenses against airborne irritants,” stresses the doctor. 

Maintaining balanced humidity, even in cooled environments, plays a subtle but important role in overall respiratory and skin health.

Some other efficient alternatives to maintaining moisture in an air-conditioned room

In households with young children or older adults who are more sensitive to changes in air quality, Dr Shivakumar says, using a proper humidifier is often a more reliable solution than placing open containers of water. Humidifiers allow you to regulate humidity levels more precisely, which can help create a more comfortable and healthier indoor environment.

“Other helpful practices include ensuring adequate hydration through water intake, using moisture-retaining skincare, and regularly ventilating the room to allow fresh air circulation when possible,” notes Dr Shivakumar. 

It is also important to service air conditioners regularly and keep filters clean, as poor air circulation or dust buildup can worsen the dryness and may also affect respiratory health.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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