Why You Should Keep a Bucket of Water in Your AC Room, According to a Top Doctor
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As temperatures soar past 40°C across India, air conditioners are a lifeline. But while they cool the room, they also dry it out - leading to discomfort like dry skin, itchy throat, and nasal irritation. Thankfully, doctors say there's a simple fix: a bucket of water.
How ACs Dry Out Your Room
Dr. Shivkumar, Chief Consultant Pulmonologist at Kaveri Hospital, Bengaluru, says that ACs work by cooling and dehumidifying the air. While this process brings instant relief from the heat, it also strips the room of moisture, creating an overly dry indoor environment. This can lead to several health issues, especially if you spend long hours in such conditions.
The Bucket Trick: How It Helps
Placing a bucket or steel plate filled with water in your AC room may seem too simple to be effective—but it works. As the water slowly evaporates, it adds moisture back into the air, slightly improving the room’s humidity. This method is especially useful in smaller spaces where the effects of dry air are more noticeable.
Health Risks of Dry Indoor Air
Constant exposure to dry air can cause:
People with pre-existing respiratory or skin conditions are especially vulnerable.
More Ways to Balance Humidity Indoors
Dr. Shivkumar also recommends these additional measures to combat dry air:
Air conditioners are essential in peak summer, but they shouldn’t come at the cost of your health. A simple, cost-free step - placing a bucket of water in the room—can make a noticeable difference in how your indoor air feels. Pair it with hydration and proper skincare, and you’ll stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
How ACs Dry Out Your Room
Dr. Shivkumar, Chief Consultant Pulmonologist at Kaveri Hospital, Bengaluru, says that ACs work by cooling and dehumidifying the air. While this process brings instant relief from the heat, it also strips the room of moisture, creating an overly dry indoor environment. This can lead to several health issues, especially if you spend long hours in such conditions.
The Bucket Trick: How It Helps
Placing a bucket or steel plate filled with water in your AC room may seem too simple to be effective—but it works. As the water slowly evaporates, it adds moisture back into the air, slightly improving the room’s humidity. This method is especially useful in smaller spaces where the effects of dry air are more noticeable.
Health Risks of Dry Indoor Air
Constant exposure to dry air can cause:
- Respiratory issues like aggravated asthma and bronchitis
- Skin problems including dry patches and flare-ups of eczema
- Nasal dryness which increases the chance of nosebleeds and reduces your body’s defence against dust and airborne irritants
People with pre-existing respiratory or skin conditions are especially vulnerable.
More Ways to Balance Humidity Indoors
Dr. Shivkumar also recommends these additional measures to combat dry air:
- Use a humidifier: More effective than a bucket, especially if you have kids or elderly at home
- Drink more water: Internal hydration is key to coping with dry air
- Moisturise daily: Apply lotion right after a shower to lock in moisture
- Ventilate the room: Open windows or doors briefly to let in fresh air
- Maintain your AC: Clean filters and regular servicing keep the air fresher and less irritating
Air conditioners are essential in peak summer, but they shouldn’t come at the cost of your health. A simple, cost-free step - placing a bucket of water in the room—can make a noticeable difference in how your indoor air feels. Pair it with hydration and proper skincare, and you’ll stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
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