As the UK braces for another heatwave with temperatures expected to reach 36C or higher, households are looking for ways to stay cool. A simple kitchen item—a bowl of cold water—placed on a windowsill can provide a surprising cooling effect.
How the Bowl of Water Trick Works
According to energy experts, placing a bowl of cold water on windowsills or worktops, close to an open window, is a cost-effective way to cool the air inside a room. The cold water absorbs heat from the air and turns it into vapour, lowering the overall air temperature. When placed in front of an open window, the breeze helps circulate this cold air into the home.
LEAP Energy Advice said: “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.”
Enhancing the Cooling Effect
To speed up the cooling process, fill bowls with ice cubes instead of cold water and place them in front of 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 essential, it can improve results. Running a fan costs a fraction of an air conditioner, which can be up to 40 times more expensive to run.
British Gas Backs the Tip
The tip is supported by British Gas as a low-cost way to keep homes cool. British Gas 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.”
