Households across the UK are being urged to use kitchen tin foil on their windows as the country braces for a scorching heatwave. With temperatures set to hit 32°C in London on Monday and Tuesday, the simple hack could help keep homes cooler without the need for expensive air conditioning.
Why Tin Foil Works
Reflective foil, commonly found in kitchens, can reduce heat and glare by up to 99%. When placed on windows, it reflects sunlight back outside, preventing the greenhouse effect that normally magnifies heat indoors. British Gas Smart Energy Engineer Jessica Rawstron explains: "This is an affordable and super effective tool for keeping your house cool in summer. It’s widely used in hotter climates and can protect your furniture from UV damage."
Where to Place the Foil
For best results, experts recommend attaching the foil to the outside of windows, especially those in direct sunlight. Adam Pawson of Safestyle warns: "Placing foil on the inside can cause the glass to overheat. It’s crucial to put it on the outside to reflect heat away." Standard kitchen foil from supermarkets like Asda, Tesco, and Morrisons works, but thicker reflective films from homeware stores may perform better.
Health Alert
The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat health alert for parts of England, including London, the South East, and the East of England, until Tuesday evening. The alert warns of serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Other Cooling Tips
- Open windows and doors only in the evening to let cooler air circulate.
- Close curtains and blinds during the day to block sunlight.
- Place bowls of water around the house; evaporation helps cool the air.
- Keep house plants, which release moisture through transpiration.
- Turn off unused appliances and charge devices at night to reduce heat output.
- Switch to energy-saving LED bulbs, which produce less heat than halogen lights.
Foil can also be used in winter behind radiators to reflect heat into the room, proving its versatility year-round.
