A test featured on BBC Morning Live on July 10 has validated several low-cost methods to cool homes during the UK's third heatwave of the year, including using frozen water bottles and tin foil. Presenter Nick Knowles and Polly Turton from Shade The UK conducted experiments as temperatures soared into the mid-30s across the country.
Frozen Bottle Fan Test
In the first experiment, a frozen water bottle was placed in front of a fan running on maximum for one hour. The room temperature dropped from 27.1°C to 25.4°C, a reduction of nearly 2°C. Nick Knowles noted the room felt "noticeably cooler." Polly Turton emphasized the health benefits, stating: "For a young child in a hot bedroom, or an elderly adult suffering from heat, that's going to make a big difference to their health and wellbeing." She added that the electricity cost for the fan is minimal compared to air conditioning, with the Energy Saving Trust estimating a fan costs 15p to 31p for 24 hours, versus up to £6 for air conditioning.
Tin Foil Window Method
The second test involved covering windows with tin foil to reflect sunlight. After one hour, the surface temperature of the glass dropped from 32°C to 28°C, a reduction of 2-3°C. Nick commented: "It definitely works." Polly noted it is an effective solution when other options are unavailable. A roll of tin foil costs around £1.50, making it a cost-effective choice.
Heatwave Context
The Met Office indicated Friday as the hottest point of the current heatwave, with the UK Health Security Agency issuing amber and yellow heat health alerts. Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree stated: "Many people will understandably want to know how long the current heatwave is likely to last. While temperatures are expected to ease across southeast England through the weekend and into next week, it won't be a straightforward end to the warm weather." The scorching conditions are putting pressure on health and social care services, as British homes, designed to retain heat in winter, struggle to stay cool.
