Fresh air flowing through a room, then straight out the other side, cuts the need for AC on mild mornings or soft evenings. A simple route note showing windows, vents, or gaps facing each other across the house allows the breeze.
Dark shingles suck in sun like a sponge, bright coatings or reflective tiles throw most of it back. Adding white lime paint or asking for cool-roof material can shave rooftop heat, especially for top-floor apartments and stand-alone houses.
South and west glasses soak up the most heat. Push for outside shades bamboo blinds, tight solar mesh, or creeping vines-that keep air cool almost by themselves.
What fills the inside of the house also plays a major role. Thick polyester curtains, dark couches, or shaggy carpets trap warmth, so a check-up often rates swapping them for light cotton drapes and airy fabrics that let cool air work.
The floor underfoot also plays a quiet cooling role. Flat marble, Kota stone, or plain tiles are favoured over soft wood or heavy rugs, because they stay cool longer, helping the house manage heat on its own.
Adding trees, shrubs, or even pot planters can turn a hot nook into a cool retreat. Look at every balcony to see if it can hold a mini orchard or hanging vines that throw shade. The bright splash adds a refreshing and cooling touch to your area.
Old Indian homes were kept cool by hanging wet khus mats, placing clay pots of water, or fitting breezy terracotta jalis. These tricks can still work in modern room plans, especially where decent airflow exists and simply needs fine-tuning.
Devices such as fridges, Wi-Fi routers, or bright ceiling bulbs give off extra warmth that creeps through a house. Spot these culprits, unplug them, and move tech out of stuffy corners so air can move freely.
Saurabh Tyagi, Co-Founder, CEO, PropChk