British Gas has urged UK households to avoid using washing machines before 5pm during the current heatwave, as temperatures are forecast to reach up to 38°C. Amber heat health alerts have been issued across parts of the UK from this morning through to Friday night.
Why Delay Washing Machine Use?
Running laundry in the evening, from 5pm onwards, can significantly reduce indoor temperatures during heatwaves. Peter Knowles, Service and Repair Engineer at British Gas, explained: "We all know how frustrating it is when our homes are hot and stuffy. The good news is that there are some practical steps that households can take to help keep inside temperatures down during the summer months." He added that simple changes like doing washing in the evening, keeping windows closed during the middle of the day, or placing fans on the floor can make a real difference.
Additional Tips to Keep Homes Cool
British Gas also recommends avoiding cooking during the hottest parts of the day. Using ovens, hobs, tumble dryers, and washing machines adds unnecessary heat when temperatures are at their peak. The company suggests batch cooking in the early morning or late evening, air-drying laundry outdoors where possible, and opting for lighter meals that require no cooking during warm periods.
Another effective method is to disconnect heat-producing devices such as chargers, laptops, and other gadgets. Even when not in active use, these devices emit ambient heat when left plugged in, contributing to a stifling indoor atmosphere.
Met Office Warning
The Met Office has warned that hot and humid weather will continue through the middle of the week, with exceptionally warm temperatures both day and night. They stated: "Substantial changes in working practices and daily routines likely to be required. Failure of heat-sensitive systems and equipment is likely, with the probable loss of power and other essential services, such as water, electricity, gas or mobile phone services."
By following these practical steps, households can help maintain cooler indoor environments during the heatwave, reducing the risk of heat-related health issues and ensuring comfort during the scorching conditions.
