The UK is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to reach 35°C in some areas. The Met Office has confirmed that South East England has officially met the heatwave threshold after three consecutive days above 28°C. Temperatures are forecast to climb to 33°C on Wednesday, 34°C on Thursday, and peak at 35°C on Friday and Saturday in isolated spots. The hot air mass is then predicted to move northwards, making conditions increasingly muggy.
Simple Cooling Hack Using a Bowl of Water
Energy experts recommend placing a bowl of cold water on windowsills or worktops near an open window. This works because cold water absorbs heat from the air and converts it into vapor, lowering the room temperature. The incoming breeze then circulates the cooler air throughout the home.
LEAP Energy Advice stated: "Although it may seem peculiar, placing bowls of water around the house can aid in cooling the hot air. This simple technique can be surprisingly effective." For faster results, they suggest using ice cubes instead of cold water and positioning the bowl in front of a fan.
DIY Air Conditioner with a Fan
LEAP added: "If you need to cool down quickly, try placing a bowl of ice and cold water in front of your fan's blades. This will cause the air blowing from the fan to pass over the icy water, creating a refreshing sensation on your skin. It's like having a homemade, DIY air-conditioner!"
While a fan is not strictly necessary, it enhances the cooling effect. Running a fan costs significantly less than air conditioning—up to 40 times cheaper—making it a cost-effective alternative.
Endorsed by British Gas
Major energy supplier British Gas endorses this method. A spokesperson said: "While fans aren't the most expensive appliance to run, using one is still likely to impact your fuel bills - but there are some things you can do to get the most out of the energy you're paying for. To really cool down a room with a fan, place a deep dish of ice in the front of it to whip up the water mist and chill the breeze. You can also point a box fan out of an open window in the evenings - this pushes the hot air out instead of just blowing it around the room."
