Before the widespread use of air conditioners, people employed various strategies to cope with hot weather and maintain comfort. Here are some ways people lived before the advent of air conditioning:
Natural ventilation: Homes were designed with features that promoted natural airflow, such as large windows, high ceilings, and cross-ventilation. Opening windows at strategic times of the day allowed cooler outside air to circulate through the house.
Shade and insulation: People used shading techniques like awnings, pergolas, or planting trees strategically to block direct sunlight from entering their homes. Well-insulated buildings helped maintain a more stable indoor temperature.
Fans: Electric fans were commonly used to create air movement and provide relief from heat. People would position fans strategically to circulate air and enhance comfort.
Architecture: Traditional architectural designs in various cultures took into account the local climate. For example, in hot regions, buildings might have thick walls that kept interiors cooler during the day and released the stored heat at night.
Siestas: In some hot countries, the practice of taking a siesta or midday rest was common. This allowed people to rest during the hottest part of the day when temperatures were at their peak.
Water-based solutions: People would use water-based methods to cool down, such as wet cloths on their skin or taking cold baths. Public fountains and pools were also popular gathering spots during hot weather.
Light clothing: People dressed in lightweight and breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in hot weather.
Social norms: People would adjust their daily routines to avoid the hottest parts of the day. For instance, they might engage in more outdoor activities during the morning or evening when temperatures were cooler.
Natural cooling techniques: Some cultures used traditional methods, such as windcatchers (badgirs) in Iran and wind towers in the Middle East, to harness natural airflow and cool down indoor spaces.
Overall, people adapted to their local climate and used a combination of architectural, cultural, and behavioral strategies to manage without air conditioning. While these methods provided some relief, there's no doubt that air conditioning has significantly improved indoor comfort and productivity, especially in regions with extremely high temperatures.