As a heatwave sweeps across the UK with temperatures forecast to hit 34°C in the South East, British Gas has shared a simple trick to keep kitchens and bathrooms cooler: use extractor fans.
How Extractor Fans Help
Extractor fans are standard in most kitchens and bathrooms, designed to remove steam and odours. During hot weather, they can also draw out warm air and improve ventilation. British Gas explains: "Extractors don't just get rid of smells and steam from cooking and showering – during hot weather they can be put to double use."
To maximise cooling, open internal doors and keep the extractor fan running after cooking or showering. This creates airflow and removes humid, hot air. British Gas advises: "It's best to do this after cooking or showering, which can both increase humidity and heat."
Optimising Airflow
Open windows or vents elsewhere in the home to let fresh, cooler air replace the expelled warm air. Once the fan is switched off, shut internal doors to prevent warm air from re-entering cooled rooms.
Additional Cooling Tips
British Gas also recommends keeping unused rooms closed during the hottest part of the day, then opening doors and windows in the evening. Avoid opening windows when temperatures peak. "Tempting as it might be to throw your windows open during a heatwave, leaving them shut when the day is at its hottest will keep rooms cool in summer," the company states.
To cool bedrooms before sleep, open interior doors and windows in the evening. Outside air is cooler later in the day, and opening windows on opposite sides of the house enhances cross-ventilation.
