We call this a first-world problem, but have you seriously considered what a world without air conditioners would be like? No magnificent Mitsubishi heavy aircon, innovative Daikin iSmile aircon… how would it feel? The thought itself may send shudders down some people’s spines, and it seems like an unfathomable situation we cannot see ourselves in. For many people around the world, air conditioners are a huge respite, whether to the heat or to the cold. In countries grappling with severe heat, air conditioners can be lifesaving. Yet, most of us take these appliances for granted, and do not realise the blessings they are for us. Yes, for proponents, they don’t do exactly the same for the environment, but scientists have always been working on building environmentally friendly units that won’t bring substantial harm. If you’ve never thought of what a world without air conditioners might seem like, here’s a quick insight. Being At Constant Mercy to the Heat Tropical countries like ours feel the heat on our backs all year round. Imagine being stripped away of that wave of cooling pleasure that washes over you in relief, and having to rely on your fan for respite. Just the thought of it is enough to make most of us break out in cold sweat. Shopping malls, recreational spaces, homes and offices would no longer be cool havens we can seek refuge in. The heat produced by other electrical appliances would only contribute to the heat you feel all around you. Affects Your Mood and Health It’s real - going without an air conditioner in a hot and stuffy climate can affect both your mood and overall health. Think back to the times where the aircon broke down and the repairman couldn’t come: did you feel suffocated, depressed and easily irritable? The longer the amount of time you spend in a hot place, the greater the effects of heat exhaustion. It has serious effects on your physical and mental health, as well as your cognitive ability. Over time, you’ll feel the effects weighing down on you more and more, and they can develop into serious problems. Affects Productivity Picture yourself at work on a hot day in your typical long-sleeved shirt and slacks. The sweat’s dripping from your forehead, down your back, and your armpits. It’s dizzyingly stuffy and you feel like screaming amidst the mountain of work needing to be done. Apart from being incredibly uncomfortable, a lack of air conditioners can make you dehydrated and nauseous. These factors make it hard to concentrate at work, and you’ll soon find yourself annoyed at every little thing and snapping at everyone you see. Climbing temperatures affect your cognitive ability, and you might feel as though you have brain fog. Poor Air Quality Modern air conditioners do more than just suck in hot air and spit out cool air. They also cleanse the surrounding air using powerful air filters, making the environment safer and healthier for you. In hot countries, heat and humidity contributes to poor quality air where dirt and dust circulate all around you. This spells trouble for people with respiratory infections or allergies, and can worsen existing symptoms.