As temperatures are predicted to exceed 25°C across much of the UK this bank holiday weekend, many people are seeking ways to stay cool. While fans remain a popular choice, the question of whether to keep windows open or closed during a heatwave is a common dilemma. To provide clarity, seven experts have weighed in, and their consensus is remarkably consistent.
Expert Consensus: Windows Closed During the Day
The general advice from all seven experts is that windows should not be left open throughout the day. Johanna Constantinou, interior trends expert at Tapi Carpets and Floors, describes leaving windows open during the hottest part of the day as a significant error. She recommends keeping windows, curtains, and blinds closed from late morning to early evening to prevent warm air and direct sunlight from building up indoors. Once temperatures drop in the evening, she suggests opening windows on opposite sides of the home to create cross-ventilation and allow cooler air to circulate naturally.
Martyn Bridges, Director of External Affairs at Worcester Bosch, echoes this advice, stating that during a heatwave, windows should generally be kept closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially in rooms exposed to direct sunlight. He also emphasizes keeping blinds or curtains closed during the day to block out sunlight and reduce solar gain, which can cause indoor temperatures to rise.
Nighttime Cooling Strategies
For those struggling to sleep at night or work from home during the day, the experts offer specific advice. Dr. Katie Tryon from Vitality Health recommends keeping the bedroom cool by drawing curtains and blinds during the day and keeping windows closed if they are in direct sunlight. When night falls and the air cools, leaving a window ajar can let in a cool breeze and improve sleep quality.
Dr. Punam Krishnan, working in association with Stannah, adds that while opening windows and using fans are widely recognized methods, it is equally important to focus on cooling down the body. She advises physical preparation alongside ventilation to maintain high sleep quality during summer months.
Creating Cross-Breezes
Victoria Robinson, product expert at Hillarys, reinforces the advice against keeping windows open constantly. She suggests opening windows on opposite sides of the home during the evening to create a cross-breeze, which allows air to flow freely and cool rooms more quickly. This technique, she explains, is most effective after temperatures drop in the evening.
Professor Chris Sansom, an expert in renewable energy storage from the University of Derby, recommends a tactical approach. He advises opening windows on opposite sides of the house to create a cooling cross-breeze and suggests opening windows at night and closing them during the day to trap cooler air inside. During daylight hours, he recommends opening windows on the shaded side of the home to reduce heat and sunlight entry.
Security Considerations
Finally, Craig Andres from The Perspicacity Life highlights another reason to avoid leaving windows open all the time: home security. He notes that simple mistakes like leaving keys in locks or within reach of open windows, or leaving windows ajar, can create easy opportunities for burglars. Over a quarter of summer burglaries are linked to these oversights.
Verdict
In summary, whether for improving sleep quality, maintaining a comfortable temperature, or ensuring home security, the experts agree that it is better to avoid leaving windows open around the clock. Instead, keep them closed during the day, especially when the sun is directly shining, and open them in the evening on opposite sides of the home to create a cross-breeze. This approach effectively cools down the living space while minimizing heat gain and security risks.
