A simple trick with frozen water bottles becomes viral in Europe as an economic solution for cool air conditioning. How it works and what you need to know.
As the successive waves heat They are testing Europe, more and more are looking for economic ways to cope with high temperatures without burdening the electricity bill.
In recent days, French media have turned their interest in a simple method used for years in Spain. This is what is called «trick with the frozen bottle», an easy practice that promises to offer temporary feeling of coolness in the interiors.
How to apply
The process is very simple. Fill a plastic bottle in about three quarters with water, leaving enough space to dilate the ice without breaking the container. Then place it in the freezer until completely frozen.
When the bottle is ready, place it in a relatively high spot inside the room, such as on a shelf or table, having a bowl or tray underneath to gather the waters from the condensation as the ice melts.
Why does it work?
The method is based on natural air circulation. The warm air that comes into contact with the frozen surface cools, becomes heavier and descends to the floor, while the warmer air rises and cools in turn.
The result does not dramatically reduce the temperature of the entire house, but can create a cooler feeling in small spaces, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
Even more effective with fan
Those with a fan can enhance the result by placing the frozen bottle right in front of the airflow.
In this way, the air that flows through the room first passes through the frozen surface, offering a cooler feeling. This technique has been described by several as an improvisation «portable air conditioning», although its effectiveness is clearly limited in relation to a real cooling system.
Does not replace air conditioner
Experts point out that this particular trick cannot replace an air conditioner, especially in extreme heat conditions or in large spaces. Its effect is temporary and depends on the size of the room, ambient temperature and ventilation.
Nevertheless, it can be an economic solution for those who do not have air conditioning or wish to limit electricity consumption. For this reason, the method has become particularly popular in France, where it is presented as a clever and low-cost trick for the heat days.
However, in times of very high temperatures, health authorities recommend not relying solely on such solutions. Good hydration, avoiding exposure to the sun in the middle of the day and staying in cool or air-conditioned spaces remain the most effective protection measures against heat stress.
