With temperatures set to hit 33°C in parts of the UK, many households are seeking relief from the heat. Fewer than 5% of UK properties have built-in air conditioning, as homes are traditionally designed to retain heat rather than release it. However, there are several low-cost methods to keep your home cool without expensive aircon systems.
One simple trick involves placing a bottle filled with ice and a tablespoon of salt in front of a fan. The salt lowers the freezing point of the water, creating colder ice. As the ice melts, the fan blows cool air across it, mimicking an air conditioner. Alternatively, a bowl of ice water or a damp towel draped over a fan can provide a similar cooling effect.
Closing curtains and blinds, particularly blackout varieties, can prevent a greenhouse effect by blocking sunlight. Keep windows shut during the hottest part of the day to avoid letting hot air in, and open them at night when temperatures drop to allow cool air to circulate. Shutting doors to unused rooms can help concentrate the breeze in occupied spaces.
Bedding choices also matter: sateen sheets wick sweat better than cotton, and cooling pillow inserts can provide relief. Additionally, certain houseplants like rubber plants, palms, and ficus benjaminas can help cool the air through a natural process called transpiration. Finally, turning off unused lights reduces heat output, saving energy and lowering bills.
