U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday (May 23, 2026) a deal with Iran had been “largely negotiated,” with the proposal including opening the crucial Strait of Hormuz, though the agreement was “subject to finalisation.” “An Agreement has been largely negotiated
A person who approached a White House security checkpoint and began firing at officers has died, according to federal officials. The U.S. Secret Service said in a statement late on Saturday (May 23, 2026) that, according to a preliminary investigation
Pakistani woman says corporate culture makes employees feel guilty for taking leave: ‘Rest needs justification’A Pakistani woman said corporate jobs made employees feel guilty for taking paid leaves they were allowed to use. Published on: May 24
This crunchy veggie rice paper pancake is the perfect quick-fix snack for sudden hunger cravings at home: Full recipeFrom crispy edges to flavour-packed bites, try this veggie rice paper pancake recipe for an ultimate comfort snack for lazy evenings. Updated on: May 24
Amazon techie earning ₹11 lakh/month has 1 house in US, 4 properties in India, Range Rover — but no emergency fundAn Amazon employee earning close to $300,000 feels financially insecure despite significant savings and investments. Published on: May 24
How to stay cool without an AC using simple and affordable cooling solutions
No budget for an AC? How to stay cool without an AC using simple and affordable cooling solutions
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.
No budget for an AC? How to stay cool without an AC using simple and affordable cooling solutions
From air coolers to simple home hacks, these budget-friendly cooling options can help you stay comfortable without spending a lot or raising electricity bills.
Published on: Mar 20, 2026 10:00 AM IST Share via Copy linkOur Picks
Our Picks
Product Rating Price Symphony Winter 100XL Desert Air Cooler | 4-Side Honeycomb Pads | +Air Fan Technology | Cool Flow Dispenser | 105L | 1-Year Warranty View Details ₹11,491 CHECK DETAILS Bajaj PX97 Torque New 36L Personal Air Cooler For Home | High Speed Fan | 30Ft Powerful Air Throw | Inverter Compatible | Cooler For Room | 1 Year Warranty【White】 View Details ₹5,799 CHECK DETAILS Orient Electric Durachill 40 L Portable Air Cooler For Home | Densenest Honeycomb Pads |More Air Delivery | Fully Collapsible Louvers |Inverter Compatible | 1 Year Warranty by Orient | White & Grey View Details ₹5,599 CHECK DETAILS Bajaj DMH90 Neo 90L Desert Air Cooler | Powerful 90ft Air Throw for Large Rooms | Big Ice Chamber & High-Speed Cooling | Inverter Compatible | 1 Year Warranty【White】 View Details ₹10,999 CHECK DETAILS Crompton Ozone 75 Litres Desert Air Cooler for home | Large & Easy Clean Ice Chamber | 4-Way Air Deflection | High Density Honeycomb Pads | Everlast Pump | Auto Fill View Details ₹11,000 CHECK DETAILS View MoreResearch-Backed Choices
Every product we recommend is chosen through a combination of Primary Research and Secondary Research. Step outside in peak summer and it feels unbearable. Step inside, and it’s not much better. With temperatures crossing 40°C in many parts of India, staying cool at home has become less of a comfort and more of a daily struggle. Budget cooling solutions when an AC gets too expensive. (AI Generated) By Aishwarya Faraswal Aishwarya is your go-to guide for turning your home, especially your kitchen, into the smartest and most efficient space on the block. If you ever find yourself wondering which air fryer actually delivers that perfect crisp, whether a new-age water purifier is worth the hype, or how to make your refrigerator work smarter (not harder), she’s the one to turn to. For over five years, Aishwarya has dived deep into the world of home and kitchen tech, reviewing everything from air fryers and microwaves to chimneys and water purifiers. Her approach is simple: cut the jargon, highlight genuine innovation, and spotlight budget-friendly solutions without compromising on quality. Her column is where fresh launches meet honest opinions. There is no sugarcoating and no fancy marketing spin. Every review comes from real, hands-on experience, giving readers the unfiltered truth, good or bad (sometimes brutal). A big believer in viral “how-to” hacks, Aishwarya loves sharing appliance hacks like microwave-cleaning tricks that involve a lemon and absolutely zero scrubbing, fridge-care tips (when sometimes all you need to do is defrost) that save you trouble, and everything in between. She tries her best for home tech to feel less overwhelming and a whole lot more fun.Read moreRead less Air conditioners seem like the obvious solution, but not everyone can afford them, or even install one. Between the upfront cost, rising electricity bills, and practical issues in rented homes, ACs don’t work for a large section of people. The good news is, you don’t always need one. Indian homes have always relied on a mix of smart appliances and simple hacks to deal with heat. And even today, there are budget-friendly cooling options that can make a real difference—if you know what actually works.Why ACs are not always practical
On paper, ACs solve the problem. In reality, they come with their own set of challenges. The first is cost. Buying an AC is just the beginning, you also pay for installation, stabilisers in some cases, and regular servicing. It quickly becomes a long-term expense. Then comes electricity consumption. Running an AC for hours every day during summer can push monthly bills up significantly, which many households try to avoid. There’s also the issue of flexibility. If you live in a rented house or move frequently, installing a split AC is not always convenient. Even window ACs need proper space and setup. Because of this, many people look for options that are easier to manage, lighter on the pocket, and still offer decent relief from the heat.Budget cooling options in India
Air Coolers: Still the most practical choice
If there’s one appliance that comes closest to an AC without the high cost, it’s an air cooler. They are widely used across India for a reason, they’re affordable, easy to maintain, and don’t consume much electricity. From large desert coolers for bigger rooms to compact personal coolers, there’s something for every space. In dry regions, especially in North India, air coolers can be surprisingly effective. The air feels fresh instead of dry, and the cooling is enough for daily comfort. That said, they need proper ventilation to work well. Keeping a window slightly open helps circulate air better. And while they struggle in humid weather, in the right conditions, they are easily the best budget alternative to an AC. Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions...Fans that do more than just spin
Fans may seem basic, but the right kind can change how a room feels. High-speed ceiling fans improve airflow across the room, making the heat more bearable. BLDC fans, in particular, are gaining attention because they use much less electricity and are designed for longer usage. Pedestal and table fans are also useful, especially when you need focused airflow. Instead of cooling the room, they cool you directly, and sometimes that’s enough. In many homes, upgrading to a better fan setup itself makes a noticeable difference without adding much to the budget. Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions...Portable ACs: Flexible but not cheap
Portable air conditioners are often seen as an easier alternative to traditional ACs. They don’t need permanent installation and can be moved from one room to another. For renters or people who don’t want to commit to a fixed setup, this sounds ideal. But there’s a trade-off. Portable ACs are still expensive compared to coolers, and their cooling is not as strong as split ACs. They also consume a fair amount of power. So while they solve the flexibility issue, they don’t fully solve the cost problem. Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions...Small fans
Sometimes, the problem isn’t just heat, it’s poor airflow. That’s where air circulators come in. Unlike regular fans, they are designed to move air around the entire room, not just one spot. This helps reduce that closed, stuffy feeling. Table fans and small portable fans also work well for personal use—on a work desk, near the bed, or in small rooms. They don’t lower the temperature, but they make the environment more comfortable, which is often what people actually need. Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions... Loading Suggestions...Low-cost cooling hacks that still work
Not every solution needs a plug point. Some of the most effective cooling tricks are simple and have been used in Indian homes for years. Damp curtains or khus curtains are a great example. As air passes through them, it cools down slightly before entering the room. Another common trick is placing ice or cold water in front of a fan. It’s not a replacement for a cooling device, but it does offer temporary relief. Opening windows at night allows cooler air to enter, especially after the sun goes down. Early morning ventilation works the same way. These methods may seem basic, but when combined with other options, they actually help reduce the overall heat inside the house.Cooling bedding and everyday comfort
A lot of discomfort during summer comes from body heat rather than just room temperature. Switching to cotton bedsheets instead of synthetic ones can make a big difference. Cotton allows better airflow and feels lighter on the skin. Bamboo mats are another simple option that many households still rely on. They don’t trap heat and feel cooler to sleep on. Even small changes like using lighter blankets or breathable pillow covers can improve comfort at night. Managing power: Inverter and solar support While not directly linked to cooling, power backup plays a big role in summer comfort. Frequent power cuts can make even the best cooling setup useless. An inverter ensures that fans and coolers keep running when you need them most. Some households are also turning to solar power to reduce electricity costs, especially if they rely heavily on cooling appliances during summer months. Cooling your home is also about smart habits Cooling isn’t just about what you buy, it’s also about how you manage your space. Start with blocking heat from entering your home. Thick curtains, blinds, or even simple shades can reduce direct sunlight. Try to avoid using appliances that generate heat during the day. Cooking, ironing, or even keeping too many lights on can raise the room temperature. Light-coloured interiors reflect heat better than darker ones, which helps keep the room slightly cooler. Even indoor plants, while not a major cooling solution, can improve the overall feel of the space and make it more comfortable.What actually works in Indian conditions
There’s no single solution that works everywhere. The best setup depends on your location and living conditions. In dry regions, air coolers combined with proper ventilation work really well. In humid cities, fans and airflow matter more since coolers lose their effectiveness. For small rooms, a mix of high-speed fans and simple cooling hacks is often enough. And if the budget allows, adding a portable AC to the mix can improve comfort—but it’s not always necessary.Conclusion
Not having an AC doesn’t mean you have to suffer through the summer. With the right combination of appliances and simple changes at home, staying cool is very much possible. Instead of relying on one expensive solution, it often works better to mix and match, use a cooler where it’s effective, improve airflow with better fans, and support it with small everyday habits. In the end, dealing with Indian summers is less about spending more and more about making smarter choices that suit your home and your budget.Similar stories for you
Enjoy big savings on a range of ACs and refrigerators this summer! Up to 65% off on LG, Samsung, Godrej and more Top rated 1 ton ACs that deliver powerful cooling for small rooms Best inverter ACs for non-stop cooling: Energy-efficient picks for powerful and reliable summer comfort at home Planning to buy an AC in 2026? These 8 air conditioners are worth considering Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Aishwarya Faraswal Aishwarya is your go-to guide for turning your home, especially your kitchen, into the smartest and most efficient space on the block. If you ever find yourself wondering which air fryer actually delivers that perfect crisp, whether a new-age water purifier is worth the hype, or how to make your refrigerator work smarter (not harder), she’s the one to turn to. For over five years, Aishwarya has dived deep into the world of home and kitchen tech, reviewing everything from air fryers and microwaves to chimneys and water purifiers. Her approach is simple: cut the jargon, highlight genuine innovation, and spotlight budget-friendly solutions without compromising on quality. Her column is where fresh launches meet honest opinions. There is no sugarcoating and no fancy marketing spin. Every review comes from real, hands-on experience, giving readers the unfiltered truth, good or bad (sometimes brutal). A big believer in viral “how-to” hacks, Aishwarya loves sharing appliance hacks like microwave-cleaning tricks that involve a lemon and absolutely zero scrubbing, fridge-care tips (when sometimes all you need to do is defrost) that save you trouble, and everything in between. She tries her best for home tech to feel less overwhelming and a whole lot more fun.Read More News / Technology / No Budget For An AC? How To Stay Cool Without An AC Using Simple And Affordable Cooling SolutionsStep outside in peak summer and it feels unbearable. Step inside, and it’s not much better. With temperatures crossing 40°C in many parts of India, staying cool at home has become less of a comfort and more of a daily struggle.
Air conditioners seem like the obvious solution, but not everyone can afford them, or even install one. Between the upfront cost, rising electricity bills, and practical issues in rented homes, ACs don’t work for a large section of people.
The good news is, you don’t always need one. Indian homes have always relied on a mix of smart appliances and simple hacks to deal with heat. And even today, there are budget-friendly cooling options that can make a real difference—if you know what actually works.
The first is cost. Buying an AC is just the beginning, you also pay for installation, stabilisers in some cases, and regular servicing. It quickly becomes a long-term expense.
Then comes electricity consumption. Running an AC for hours every day during summer can push monthly bills up significantly, which many households try to avoid.
There’s also the issue of flexibility. If you live in a rented house or move frequently, installing a split AC is not always convenient. Even window ACs need proper space and setup.
Because of this, many people look for options that are easier to manage, lighter on the pocket, and still offer decent relief from the heat.
They are widely used across India for a reason, they’re affordable, easy to maintain, and don’t consume much electricity. From large desert coolers for bigger rooms to compact personal coolers, there’s something for every space.
In dry regions, especially in North India, air coolers can be surprisingly effective. The air feels fresh instead of dry, and the cooling is enough for daily comfort.
That said, they need proper ventilation to work well. Keeping a window slightly open helps circulate air better. And while they struggle in humid weather, in the right conditions, they are easily the best budget alternative to an AC.
High-speed ceiling fans improve airflow across the room, making the heat more bearable. BLDC fans, in particular, are gaining attention because they use much less electricity and are designed for longer usage.
Pedestal and table fans are also useful, especially when you need focused airflow. Instead of cooling the room, they cool you directly, and sometimes that’s enough.
In many homes, upgrading to a better fan setup itself makes a noticeable difference without adding much to the budget.
For renters or people who don’t want to commit to a fixed setup, this sounds ideal. But there’s a trade-off.
Portable ACs are still expensive compared to coolers, and their cooling is not as strong as split ACs. They also consume a fair amount of power.
So while they solve the flexibility issue, they don’t fully solve the cost problem.
Unlike regular fans, they are designed to move air around the entire room, not just one spot. This helps reduce that closed, stuffy feeling.
Table fans and small portable fans also work well for personal use—on a work desk, near the bed, or in small rooms.
They don’t lower the temperature, but they make the environment more comfortable, which is often what people actually need.
Damp curtains or khus curtains are a great example. As air passes through them, it cools down slightly before entering the room.
Another common trick is placing ice or cold water in front of a fan. It’s not a replacement for a cooling device, but it does offer temporary relief.
Opening windows at night allows cooler air to enter, especially after the sun goes down. Early morning ventilation works the same way.
These methods may seem basic, but when combined with other options, they actually help reduce the overall heat inside the house.
Switching to cotton bedsheets instead of synthetic ones can make a big difference. Cotton allows better airflow and feels lighter on the skin.
Bamboo mats are another simple option that many households still rely on. They don’t trap heat and feel cooler to sleep on.
Even small changes like using lighter blankets or breathable pillow covers can improve comfort at night.
Managing power: Inverter and solar support
While not directly linked to cooling, power backup plays a big role in summer comfort.
Frequent power cuts can make even the best cooling setup useless. An inverter ensures that fans and coolers keep running when you need them most.
Some households are also turning to solar power to reduce electricity costs, especially if they rely heavily on cooling appliances during summer months.
Cooling your home is also about smart habits
Cooling isn’t just about what you buy, it’s also about how you manage your space.
Start with blocking heat from entering your home. Thick curtains, blinds, or even simple shades can reduce direct sunlight.
Try to avoid using appliances that generate heat during the day. Cooking, ironing, or even keeping too many lights on can raise the room temperature.
Light-coloured interiors reflect heat better than darker ones, which helps keep the room slightly cooler.
Even indoor plants, while not a major cooling solution, can improve the overall feel of the space and make it more comfortable.
In dry regions, air coolers combined with proper ventilation work really well.
In humid cities, fans and airflow matter more since coolers lose their effectiveness.
For small rooms, a mix of high-speed fans and simple cooling hacks is often enough.
And if the budget allows, adding a portable AC to the mix can improve comfort—but it’s not always necessary.
Instead of relying on one expensive solution, it often works better to mix and match, use a cooler where it’s effective, improve airflow with better fans, and support it with small everyday habits.
In the end, dealing with Indian summers is less about spending more and more about making smarter choices that suit your home and your budget.
Top rated 1 ton ACs that deliver powerful cooling for small rooms
Best inverter ACs for non-stop cooling: Energy-efficient picks for powerful and reliable summer comfort at home
Planning to buy an AC in 2026? These 8 air conditioners are worth considering
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Source: HindustanTimes
Related Posts: BBC overhauls editorial committee after Trump speech row Intel Core i9 laptops are built to handle demanding work and heavy multitasking Essential that we frame our own rules adhering to our necessities Blame Our Love of Booze on Our Primate Ancestors Trump’s policies… cutting our nose to spite our face Peyush, Neha Bansal To Earn Rs 1,200 Cr From Lenskart IPO Sreenidi Deccan rally to earn point against Namdhari SC Amul store for Rs 2-6 lakh can earn Rs 40 How Much Does Personal Driver In India Earn Indian-Origin Banker Set To Earn Rs 500 Crore At Citigroup Faces
With big-budget spectacles and larger-than-life action becoming the norm, one upcoming Hindi film is now aiming for something Indian cinema has rarely explored in a full-fledged way… alien horror. Actor Akshay Kumar is set to headline Samuk, a sci-fi thriller centred around extraterrestrial
1 days ago
Kara OTT release: Dhanush's ₹50 crore heist film gets digital release in less than a month; when and where to watchKara OTT release: Vignesh Raja's Tamil film starring Dhanush and Mamitha Baiju was released in theatres on April 30. Know when and where to stream it online. May 24, 2026
1 days ago
The Supreme Court on Saturday registered a suo motu case in connection with the death of a woman in Madhya Pradesh, whose family has alleged that her in-laws harassed her for dowry, reported The Hindu. Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi will hear the case on
1 days ago
Rare lung transplant at Apollo saves a life; spotlight on India's organ donor shortageRare lung transplant at Apollo saves a life; spotlight on India's organ donor shortage Published on: May 24, 2026 10:33 AM IST PTI Share via Copy link New Delhi, A year ago, every breath felt borrowed
1 days ago
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.These countertop organisers, crockery pick and jars can give your kitchen a Pinteresty spin by keeping the clutter awayTurn your kitchen into a photo-ready space with stylish organisers
1 days ago
Indian athletics witnessed a historic evening in Ranchi as Tejaswin Shankar became the first Indian ever to breach the 8000-point barrier in decathlon at the Federation Cup on Saturday. The 27-year-old produced a sensational all-round performance to finish with 8057 points
1 days ago
The Centre released draft rules for the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025 for public consultation. The rules focus on governance, grievance redressal, and transitioning from MGNREGA to the new rural employment scheme
1 days ago
The National Threat Analytics Unit of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) has warned of a sophisticated phishing campaign impersonating Apple tech support to target whose devices have been lost or stolen, officials said on Saturday.The I4C, which functions under the Union Home Ministry
1 days ago
Sachin Tendulkar praised his son Arjun's IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants. Arjun Tendulkar showed patience and skill in his first match. He bowled well and took a wicket. Sachin Tendulkar expressed pride in his son's performance and attitude
1 days ago
White House shooting suspect claimed to be ‘real’ Osama bin Laden, threatened Trump online: ReportOsama bin Laden was the founder and leader of the terror group Al-Qaeda, which was reportedly responsible the 9/11 attacks. Updated on: May 24, 2026 11:02 AM IST By Anita Goswami Share via Copy
1 days ago
May 24, Birthday Horoscope: Here's what the tarot cards have in store for youIf your birthday falls on May 24, here’s what your year ahead looks like, as per Tarot. Published on: May 24, 2026 11:00 AM IST By Kishori Sud Share via Copy link If you were born on May 24
1 days ago
George Russell may have delivered the perfect answer to mounting pressure at Mercedes. After a fiery sprint race clash with championship-leading teammate Kimi Antonelli earlier on Saturday, the Briton bounced back in style to grab pole position for Sunday’s Canadian Grand Prix — edging the
1 days ago
BJP candidate Debangshu Panda is leading significantly in the Falta assembly constituency repoll. After five rounds of counting, Panda has secured a lead of over 14,000 votes against his CPI(M) rival. The repoll followed allegations of EVM tampering and irregularities during the initial polling
1 days ago
The suspect in a shooting near the White House was killed in an exchange of fire with Secret Service agents on Saturday evening, officials have confirmed. BBC's US media partner CBS has named the suspect as Nasire Best, a 21-year-old man who was known to the Secret Service and had a documented
1 days ago
CPI(M) MP raises concerns over CBSE's digital evaluation, seeks interventionCPI(M) MP raises concerns over CBSE's digital evaluation, seeks intervention Published on: May 23, 2026 5:22 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link New Delhi, The Rajya Sabha leader of the CPI, John Brittas
1 days ago
Imagine enjoying a decadent, fudge‑like treat that also supports your hormones, libido, and menstrual rhythm, all while being packed with collagen, magnesium, adaptogens, and lignan‑rich omega‑3s. These Seed Cycling Hormone Bliss Balls are designed around the simple yet powerful practice of
1 days ago
Weekly Love Horoscope for May 24-30, 2026: The stars brings positive energies for these zodiac signsWeekly Love Horoscope for May 24-30, 2026: This week asks for patience, trust, and emotional resilience. Published on: May 24, 2026 7:30 AM IST By Kishori Sud Share via Copy link Aries Love feels
1 days ago
From a darkly comic tale of revenge to a beautiful contemplation on friendship, here are the year's most acclaimed works of fiction so far. "Daring, deranged, cleverly written," is how Vogue describes the buzzy debut by Caro Claire Burke. In this satirical thriller
1 days ago
Overnight fires in Delhi: Shops, homes gutted in four blazesA fire department officer was injured after the tin shed of one of the shops he was standing on during the firefighting operation collapsed. Updated on: May 24, 2026 7:37 AM IST By Karn Pratap Singh Share via Copy link Four separate fire
1 days ago
As per the government, the new rules enable families living in Delhi to submit applications if their annual household income is within the newly prescribed limit. New Delhi: The Delhi government has reopened the process of issuing fresh ration cards under changed eligibility criteria after a gap of
1 days ago
The reported disruption of AI-animated film Critterz after OpenAI allegedly shut down Sora has sparked a larger conversation around one major issue in tech and entertainment: what happens when creators build entire projects on platforms they do not control?The reported disruption of AI-animated
1 days ago
Ex-Meta employee says non-Chinese workers were targeted for layoffsA laid-off Meta engineer has alleged that he was routinely excluded and ostracised by his Chinese colleagues at the company. Updated on: May 24, 2026 7:01 AM IST By Sanya Jain Share via Copy link A laid-off Meta engineer has alleged
1 days ago
Mackenzie Shirilla wanted Kim Kardashian's help; here's why it's not happeningMackenzie Shirilla sought Kim Kardashian's legal support following the release of The Crash documentary, but Kardashian reportedly has no plans to get involved. May 24, 2026
1 days ago
X warns founder against reuploading White House shooting video: 'Revenue reduced by 90%'Nikita Bier of X warned a user against reuploading the White House shooting video, asking him to ‘Quote’ or ‘Video Reshare’ instead. Updated on: May 24, 2026 6:14 AM IST By Sanya Jain Share via Copy link
1 days ago
Sonam Wangchuk says Article 371 talks for Ladakh still ‘work in progress’; backs Cockroach Janta PartySonam Wangchuk hoped constitutional safeguards will be granted to Ladakh after recent talks between Ladakh groups and the Centre. Updated on: May 24
1 days ago
Talking about international partnerships, PM Modi said India’s growing ties with global companies and countries would create new opportunities for young people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed more than 51,000 appointment letters to newly recruited candidates during the 19th Rozgar Mela
1 days ago
Dipika Kakar’s father-in-law in ICU after suffering stroke, Shoaib Ibrahim seeks prayers: ‘24 hrs are crucial’Shoaib Ibrahim took to Instagram to inform fans that his father has been hospitalised once again after suffering another stroke. May 24, 2026
1 days ago
