As much of the UK officially enters heatwave conditions, many homeowners find their properties ill-equipped for the soaring temperatures. While this is welcome news for those heading to the coast, it can be a challenge for anyone staying indoors. British homes are not typically designed for such heat, making it difficult to stay cool, especially at night when sleep becomes elusive.
To help people cope as temperatures climb, we consulted several experts on how to maintain a comfortable living environment. Surprisingly, they all highlighted one free and straightforward tip: keep your curtains, blinds, and windows closed during the hottest part of the day.
The Power of Closed Curtains
Martin Garbutt, head of technical governance at home services platform Ding, explains: "True sunny days are rare in the UK, so it's natural to want to open curtains to enjoy the weather. However, this can be counterintuitive, as sunlight and heat pass through windows, warming up a room. Glass can trap and even magnify this heat, making the room feel hotter." He recommends keeping curtains shut during the hottest hours to block direct sunlight and reduce heat buildup. If curtains are thin, draping thick materials like bed covers over windows can serve as an effective alternative.
Chris Michael, co-founder of Meaco, echoes this advice: "Direct sunlight through windows quickly heats up your home. Keep blinds, curtains, and windows closed during the hottest part of the day, especially those facing south. Once the temperature drops in the evening, open them to let cooler air in."
Strategic Window Opening
Martyn Bridges, Director of External Affairs at Worcester Bosch, suggests a clever method to increase airflow once the sun goes down. "If it is safe and secure to do so, opening windows at opposite ends of the house can create a thorough draught. This encourages warmer air to move out while allowing cooler evening air to circulate, making it a practical, budget-friendly way to cool the space after a hot day."
Boost Your Fan's Efficiency
On still evenings, a fan can be a lifesaver. Noel Fok, CEO and co-founder of EcoAir, shares a simple trick: "Placing a bowl of icy water in front of a fan can help cool the air as it circulates. For smaller rooms, a space-saving tower fan makes a stylish statement and is easy to store when the weather turns."
Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances
Jamie Heath, heating expert at Build & Plumb, emphasizes that what you avoid can be as important as what you do. "To prevent overheating, avoid using high-heat appliances during the day. Instead, cook outdoors, use air fryers, or prepare cold meals. Use the hot weather to dry clothes outdoors rather than using a tumble dryer."
Cooling Your Body
Ruth MacEachern, ventilation specialist at envirovent, suggests using a hot water bottle filled with cold water and frozen before placing it in your bed. "Quick tricks like placing frozen towels on pulse points or taking lukewarm showers can provide quick relief from the heat."
By following these expert tips, you can keep your home cooler without spending a penny, ensuring a more comfortable environment during even the most intense heatwaves.
