Beat the Heat and Humidity: 7 Ways to Keep Your Kerala Home Cool and Dry

Kerala, located in the southern part of India, is known for its tropical climate, lush greenery, and backwaters. However, this also means that the region experiences high humidity and heat, especially during the summer months. The combination of high humidity and heat can make it uncomfortable to live in Kerala homes, leading to a range of problems such as mold, mildew, and other health hazards.

If you are a resident of Kerala and are looking for ways to reduce humidity and hotness in your home, you have come to the right place. In this blog post, we will discuss some effective methods to keep your home cool and dry, ensuring a comfortable and healthy living environment.

Invest in a dehumidifier

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One of the most effective ways to reduce humidity levels in your home is to invest in a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier is a device that is designed to remove excess moisture from the air. It works by pulling in the humid air and cooling it, which causes the moisture to condense into water droplets. The dehumidifier then collects the water and discharges dry air back into the room.

Dehumidifiers come in different sizes and capacities, so you can choose one that suits the size of your home. They are relatively easy to use, and most models come with a built-in humidistat, which allows you to set the desired humidity level. You can also consider getting a portable dehumidifier if you want to move it around the house.

Use natural ventilation

Natural ventilation is an excellent way to keep your home cool and dry, especially during the evenings and early mornings. Kerala homes are usually designed to allow for natural ventilation, with large windows and doors that can be opened to let in fresh air. You can also install roof vents or air vents to allow hot air to escape from your home.

When using natural ventilation, it is essential to create a cross-ventilation system to allow for air to flow freely through the house. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors on opposite sides of the house to create a breeze. You can also use ceiling fans or pedestal fans to improve air circulation.

Install air conditioning

Air conditioning is a popular and effective way to keep your home cool and comfortable, especially during the summer months. Air conditioning works by removing heat and moisture from the air and discharging cool and dry air back into the room.

If you decide to install air conditioning in your home, it is important to choose the right size and capacity. A unit that is too small will struggle to cool the room, while a unit that is too large will cool the room too quickly, resulting in high energy bills.

You can also consider getting a ductless mini-split system, which is a cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative to central air conditioning. Ductless mini-split systems are easy to install and can be used to cool individual rooms or zones in your home.

Use insulation

Insulation is an effective way to keep your home cool and dry by reducing the amount of heat that enters your home. Insulation works by creating a barrier between the inside and outside of your home, preventing heat from entering during the summer months and retaining heat during the winter months.

There are different types of insulation available, including fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam insulation. The type of insulation you choose will depend on your budget and the level of insulation you require.

Keep your home clean and dry

Keeping your home clean and dry is an essential part of reducing humidity levels and keeping your home comfortable. You should regularly clean your home, including your floors, walls, and furniture, to prevent mold and mildew from forming.

You should also ensure that your home is well-ventilated to allow for proper air circulation and reduce moisture buildup. This includes using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, opening windows and doors during dry weather, and using a clothesline instead of a dryer.

In addition, you can also use moisture-absorbing materials such as silica gel packets or charcoal to help reduce moisture levels in your home. These materials can be placed in closets, drawers, and other areas where moisture tends to build up.

Use shading devices

Using shading devices such as curtains, blinds, or shades can help reduce the amount of heat that enters your home through windows. You can also consider installing window films or reflective coatings to reduce heat gain.

Another option is to use outdoor shading devices such as awnings, pergolas, or shade sails to block direct sunlight from entering your home. These outdoor shading devices can also add to the aesthetic appeal of your home and create an outdoor living space that is protected from the sun.

Use light-colored or reflective materials

Using light-colored or reflective materials on the roof, walls, and floors can help reduce heat absorption and keep your home cool. Light-colored or reflective materials reflect sunlight, reducing the amount of heat that enters your home.

You can also consider using reflective roof coatings or tiles to reduce heat absorption on the roof. These coatings and tiles are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce the temperature of the roof surface.

In conclusion, reducing humidity and hotness in Kerala homes requires a combination of methods that work together to create a comfortable and healthy living environment. By investing in a dehumidifier, using natural ventilation, installing air conditioning, using insulation, keeping your home clean and dry, using shading devices, and using light-colored or reflective materials, you can create a home that is cool, dry, and comfortable even during the hottest and most humid months of the year.