Not long ago, air conditioning was considered a luxury in many households across the region. Many older homes had no cooling systems at all, and people relied on fans, shutters and natural ventilation to cope with summer temperatures. Today, the picture is very different. From apartments and offices to small neighborhood shops, cafés and public transport, air conditioners have become a standard feature, with many homes now equipped with more than one unit.
The shift reflects not only improving living standards and more affordable technology, but also the growing impact of climate change. Longer and more intense heatwaves have made cooling systems increasingly important for comfort, productivity and, in many cases, public health. Modern air conditioners also provide heating during winter, making them a year-round investment rather than a seasonal appliance.
Despite their benefits, health experts continue to recommend responsible use. Spending long periods in very cold, air-conditioned spaces or sitting directly in the path of cold airflow can cause discomfort, muscle stiffness and irritation of the eyes or respiratory tract. Moving abruptly from extreme outdoor heat into a heavily cooled room may also place additional stress on the body, making moderate temperature settings and gradual adjustment the safest approach.
As summers continue to grow hotter, air conditioning is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity. Yet, like many technologies that improve daily life, its greatest benefits come when it is used wisely providing relief from the heat while protecting both health and energy efficiency.
