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Air conditioners offer summer relief, but low humidity can harm health. Keeping a bucket or bowl of water in the room helps maintain moisture and reduces dryness-related issues
This remedy can reduce the risk of skin dryness, respiratory discomfort, and contribute to a healthier indoor environment. (AI Generated/News18 Hindi)
With summer temperatures soaring above 40°C in many parts of India, air conditioners have become essential for relief. However, while they offer cool comfort, ACs also dry out indoor air, potentially leading to issues like dry throat, irritated skin, and other health concerns. Experts suggest a simple remedy: placing a bucket or bowl of water in the room to help maintain humidity and reduce discomfort.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Dr. Shivkumar, Chief Consultant Pulmonologist at Kaveri Hospital, Bengaluru, endorsed the use of water containers in air-conditioned rooms.
Why Maintaining Room Humidity Matters
Dr. Shivkumar explained that continuous use of an air conditioner lowers the humidity in a room. While cooling the air, the AC also removes its moisture, making the indoor environment excessively dry. As a result, people may experience nasal dryness, throat irritation, and dry or itchy skin.
What Are The Benefits Of Keeping Water In A Bucket?
Dr. Shivkumar explained that placing a bucket or steel plate filled with water in an air-conditioned room allows moisture to slowly evaporate, helping to slightly restore humidity levels. While this method isn’t as effective as a humidifier, it can offer noticeable relief—particularly in small to medium-sized rooms where the air feels excessively dry.
What Are The Risks Of Prolonged Exposure To Dry Air?
Staying in a dry environment for extended periods can negatively impact health. Doctors warn that very dry air can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, especially in individuals already prone to breathing issues. It can also aggravate skin problems such as eczema by stripping away natural moisture. Additionally, the nasal lining may dry out, increasing the risk of nosebleeds and weakening the body’s natural defense against dust and pollutants.
What Else Can You Do To Reduce Dryness?
Dr. Shivkumar recommends a few additional steps to help maintain balanced air quality in air-conditioned rooms:
Use A Humidifier: For households with young children or elderly members, an electronic humidifier is more effective than a bucket of water. It allows better control over indoor humidity levels.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated from within.
Follow A Moisturising Skincare Routine: Apply moisturizer after bathing to help lock in skin moisture and prevent dryness.
Air Out The Room: Whenever possible, open windows or doors briefly to let in fresh air and improve ventilation.
Service Your AC Regularly: Dust and dirt buildup in an unclean AC unit can worsen air dryness and reduce air quality. Regular maintenance helps ensure cleaner, healthier airflow.
While air conditioners provide significant relief during the summer, inadequate humidity control can negatively impact health. A simple measure, such as placing a bucket or bowl of water in the room, can help maintain moisture levels. This can reduce the risk of skin dryness, respiratory discomfort, and contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
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