Why do you need to put a basin of water in when turning on the air conditioner? Revealing the secret of humidity in air-conditioned rooms
In the hot summer, air conditioners have become a "life-saving tool" for every household. However, many people find that after turning on the air conditioner for a long time, problems such as dry skin and throat discomfort ensue. As a result, the practice of "turn on the air conditioner and put a basin of water in" became widely spread. What's the science behind this? This article will analyze it for you from the perspectives of humidity, health, and energy conservation.
1. Humidity changes in air-conditioned rooms: data revealed

When the air conditioner is cooling, the water vapor in the indoor air will condense into water droplets and be discharged, causing the humidity to drop. The following is comparative data on humidity changes before and after air conditioning operation:
| scene | indoor temperature | relative humidity |
|---|---|---|
| Air conditioning not on (normal temperature) | 30°C | 60%-70% |
| After turning on the air conditioner for 1 hour | 26°C | 40%-50% |
| Turn on the air conditioner + put in a basin of water | 26°C | 50%-55% |
Data shows that placing a basin of water can effectively alleviate the dryness problem in air-conditioned rooms and increase the humidity by about 10%.
2. Three major benefits of placing a basin of water
1.health protection: When the humidity is below 40%, human mucous membranes (such as the nose and throat) are prone to dryness and cracking, increasing the risk of virus invasion. Moderate humidity (50%-60%) reduces respiratory illnesses.
2.Improved comfort: A dry environment will cause moisture loss from the skin. A water basin can reduce discomfort such as static electricity and dry eyes.
3.Energy saving tips: Under appropriate humidity, the perceived temperature is 1-2°C lower than the actual temperature. The air conditioner temperature can be adjusted to save power and be environmentally friendly.
3. How to place the water basin scientifically?
1.Location selection: Close to the air outlet of the air conditioner to accelerate water evaporation; avoid placing it next to electrical appliances.
2.water quality recommendations: Use purified water or cool boiled water to avoid breeding of bacteria.
3.Advanced plan: Add mint or lemon slices to both humidify and freshen the air.
4. Hot discussion across the Internet: Alternatives to moisturizing in air-conditioned rooms
Recently on social platforms, netizens have also recommended other moisturizing methods:
| method | Effect | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| humidifier | Precise humidity control | Requires regular cleaning |
| wet towel hanging | Economical and convenient | Need to be replaced frequently |
| Placement of green plants | natural evaporation | Avoid mosquito breeding |
5. Expert reminder: Be wary of excessive humidification
Humidity is not always better. If it exceeds 70%, it may cause mold growth, joint discomfort and other problems. It is recommended to monitor with a hygrometer to maintain the optimal range of 50%-60%.
Conclusion
"Turn on the air conditioner and put a basin of water" may seem simple, but it is a wise move to adjust the microclimate. While enjoying the coolness, don’t forget to pay attention to humidity and health, so that technology and life can coexist harmoniously.
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