In Southern Europe, they are found in almost every household: ceiling fans. Especially during the current heatwave in Germany and large parts of Europe, they could be an underestimated remedy against tropical nights.
How severely is the current heatwave really affecting Germany? According to Tagesschau, large parts of Germany are currently struggling with extreme heat – especially in the south. In cities, heat accumulates, and tropical nights (nights where the lowest air temperature does not drop below 20 degrees Celsius) are making sleep impossible for many. The Federal Environment Agency warns of health risks, especially for the elderly and children (via Federal Environment Agency).
The heat not only puts a strain on the circulatory system but can also alter the effects of medications. Generally, a consistently high outdoor temperature presents a significant burden on the body and poses a serious risk that cannot be addressed solely with cold water.
Cooling from the Ceiling
What do ceiling fans do? Who doesn’t know them? The rickety ceiling fan that slowly circles around on the ceiling of a hotel somewhere in Italy, always looking like it could fall off at any moment.
In countries like Spain or Italy, ceiling fans are standard equipment. And there are good reasons for this: they are quiet, energy-efficient, and create a cooling airflow. According to 3Djuegos, this can help regulate the perceived temperature in parts, making the room feel up to two degrees cooler than it is on the thermometer (via 3Djuegos).
Even though the devices do not actually lower the temperature, this effect is worth its weight in gold during hot weather – especially in German houses and apartments, which usually come without air conditioning.
The specific benefits are:
- Usable year-round: In winter, they can even circulate warm air better in the room.
- Low operating costs: Compared to an air conditioner, a ceiling fan consumes only about 2 cents per hour.
- Gentle cooling while sleeping: They operate quietly and do not create disturbing drafts like standing fans.
- Sustainable alternative: No climate-damaging refrigerants, no conversion – ideal for retrofitting.
What else can help? A ceiling fan works best when combined with a few simple measures. Ventilate early in the morning and late in the evening, keep windows and curtains closed during the day – this keeps the heat out.
Water can also help in many ways: a damp cloth in front of the fan acts like a mini air conditioner, and lukewarm showers cool the body more gently than ice-cold water. And finally, one must not forget the most obvious: drink plenty – regularly and even when you are not thirsty. Alcohol, on the other hand, should be avoided as it puts additional strain on the circulatory system (via Tagesschau).
With a ceiling fan, it is possible to make the feeling in the four walls at least a bit more bearable in combination. Nevertheless, it is still hot. And speaking of “hot”: colleague Karsten is just as excited about the new MMORPG Chrono Odyssey: I was skeptical whether Chrono Odyssey could impress if there was real gameplay – Now I am even more excited about the MMORPG
