Heatwaves getting too hot to handle?

If the summer heatwaves have you feeling hot and bothered, you are not alone. This summer, heatwaves have been experienced across the country.

South Africa’s average summer temperatures range from 15 °C to 36 °C. And then there are the outliers, the days that have reached way above the average, such as Table Bay reaching 45°C last year. 

How do you know when it is a heatwave? 

What is a Heatwave?

"If the temperature exceeds 5 degrees Celsius above the average maximum temperature of "the hottest month" for that particular place, as well as persisting for 3 days or more, then a heatwave is declared," according to the South African Weather Service.

We experience heatwaves for a number of reasons, including the presence of high-pressure systems over the interior of the country, which can trap warm air near the surface, resulting in extended periods of hot weather. The country's semi-arid climate can also exacerbate heatwaves, as there is little moisture in the air to cool the surface. There is also climate change, which is causing the earth's average temperature to rise, which is contributing to the increase in heatwaves.

Breezing through

In order to get through these heatwaves, you should consider investing in a fan or air circulator to circulate the air inside your home. There are several reasons why someone might choose to use a fan over an air conditioner:

1. Cost: Fans are generally less expensive to purchase and operate than air conditioners.
2. Energy efficiency: Fans use less electricity than air conditioners, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective to run.
3. Portability: Fans are smaller and can be easily moved from room to room, making them more versatile than air conditioners, which are typically installed in a fixed location.
4. Noise: Fans generally make less noise than air conditioners, making them a better choice for bedrooms or other quiet areas.
5. Cooling: Fans can circulate air around a room, providing a cooling effect without actually lowering the room's temperature.
6. Maintenance: Fans require less maintenance than air conditioners, which need regular cleaning and filter changes.
7. Air Quality: Fans don't produce the same level of dryness, mould and other contaminants as air conditioners do.

The Solenco solution is the near silent MeacoFan 1056 Air Circulator. Through its multi-directional air flow, it is able to move approximately 1056 m³ of air every hour, cooling down the whole room even though it operates at just 9 watts. Additionally, the MeacoFan 1056 was awarded the Quiet Mark Award in 2019 because its operational sound equates to that of rustling leaves (20 dB), making it a great companion for a good night’s sleep. Also available as a pedestal.

Staying One Step Ahead

With loadshedding being a persistent concern in South Africa, it’s a relief to know that Solenco sells a range of Meaco air circulators that can be powered by a power bank, a USB C, as well as a normal wall socket. So, you can at least continue to remain cool as your freezer defrosts (ugh) or your milk goes bad (again).

The energy efficient MeacoFan 650 Air Circulator runs off mains power or via USB-C. It uses 3.5 to 12 watts and offers 4 to 6 hours of running time, getting you through most stages of loadshedding. And the great news is that with an operating noise level of 20dB, comparable to a whisper, you can use it throughout the night as you sleep.

The lightweight MeacoFan 260c Cordless Air Circulator can be recharged via a standard USB port, or wall socket. At just 490g, it is small enough to carry around with you, and on a single charge it can run for up to 14 hours.

While the Meaco 1056 and 1056P don’t run off a built-in battery or from a USB port, they do have exceptionally low wattage, which means they can easily run off inverter power.

Here are a few ways additional ways you can keep your cool during these sweltering months:

• Stay indoors as much as possible during the hottest part of the day and limit your time outside to early morning or evening when it is cooler.
• Keep your blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to block out sunlight and therefore keep your home cooler.
• Take cool showers or baths to help lower your body temperature.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured, and loose-fitting clothing to stay cool and protect yourself from the sun.
• And remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and eat light, cool foods such as fruits and salads.

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As you can see, a fan is a great cost-effective companion to have by your side to get through the heatwaves this summer. And as you can find them in a variety of sizes, styles, and designs you’re sure to find one to suit your unique preferences.