As the UK experiences its third heatwave of the summer, with temperatures reaching 35C in some areas, homes risk becoming uncomfortably hot. However, a straightforward adjustment to your daily window routine, combined with a few minimal-effort modifications, could help lower indoor temperatures and boost comfort, according to a ventilation expert.
Expert Tips to Keep Your Home Cool
Ruth MacEachern, ventilation specialist at envirovent, has revealed six expert-backed tips to keep your home cool during warmer weather. These range from smarter ventilation habits to eliminating hidden heat sources, designed to assist households without heavy reliance on fans and air conditioning.
Follow a Window Routine
Opening and closing windows at the correct times can make a considerable difference to indoor temperatures. "Many UK homes are built to retain heat rather than release it, which is why they can quickly become uncomfortable in summer," said Ruth. "By adjusting when and how you ventilate your home and timing when windows are open, you can significantly limit heat build-up and create a more consistent, comfortable indoor environment." She recommends opening windows early in the mornings and late evenings when temperatures drop, and keeping them closed mid-day when it's hottest to prevent warm air entering.
Try the 'Damp Sheet' Cooling Trick
Hanging a damp sheet in front of an open window can help cool the air as it enters your home. "As the warmer air enters your home, the moisture on the sheet helps to lower the temperature creating a cooler, more refreshing breeze. Make sure that the room is well ventilated so that the evaporated water has somewhere to escape to," said Ruth.
Block Out Heat with Blinds and Curtains
In sun-facing rooms, direct sunlight can rapidly transform spaces into stifling heat traps. Ruth advises keeping curtains and blinds shut during peak sunshine hours to block out excess heat. Blackout fabrics are particularly effective and could be worth swapping in for rooms that get especially hot.
Limit Invisible Heat Sources
Everyday household appliances produce heat without us noticing, contributing to indoor temperature. "Ovens, hobs and tumble dryers give off significant heat waste, increasing the temperature indoors. Reduce use, where possible, during the warmest parts of the day and switch off devices when not in use. Not only can this prevent unnecessary heat build-up, but also reduces energy usage from standby mode," said Ruth.
Create a Cooling Cross-Breeze
Establishing airflow throughout your property is one of the most straightforward methods to lower temperature. Ruth recommends opening windows on opposite sides of the home to create a cross-breeze, allowing fresh air to circulate and warm, stale air to be pushed out. This is especially effective in the morning or late evening. For multi-story homes, create a vertical cross-breeze by opening ground-floor windows on the shaded side and top-floor windows, drawing cool air in at the bottom and pushing warm air out at the top.
Cool Yourself Down
Maintaining a cool internal body temperature is equally crucial. Ruth advises staying hydrated throughout the day and wearing breathable clothing. A hot water bottle can be filled with cold water or frozen and placed in bed to cool it down. Quick tricks like placing towels in the freezer and applying them to pulse points can provide quick relief, and taking lukewarm showers can help. It's also important to consider pets: avoid walking dogs during the hottest part of the day, ensure they have access to shaded, well-ventilated spaces, and offer frozen treats or chilled mats.
