How to keep your home cool in a heatwave
Britain needs to prepare for 45C heatwaves with window shutters, air conditioning, and temperature limits in workplaces. That was the latest advice from the government’s climate advisers, who warned that nine in ten UK properties are not designed to withstand the heat of future summers. While many in northern parts of the UK may just need shutters and blinds, those in the south may need to be fitted with air-to-air heat pumps that can cool as well as warm homes. Certainly, over the last few weeks and months, keeping our homes cool has become a national obsession. Here are some practical tips to help you stay comfortable during the day and sleep better at night.
Keep windows and curtains closed during the day
It may seem counterintuitive, but if it’s hotter outside than inside, opening windows allows warm air to enter your home. Instead, keep curtains or blinds closed to block direct sunlight, then open windows overnight when temperatures drop to let cooler air circulate.
Keep pets safe in hot weather
While heat can be uncomfortable for people, it can be life-threatening for dogs. Never leave a dog in a conservatory or parked car, even for a few minutes. On a 22C day, the temperature inside a shaded car with a window slightly open can reach around 47°C within an hour. Heatstroke can develop within minutes and may prove fatal. Visit the RSPCA website for further advice on caring for pets during hot weather https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal
Create a DIY cooling effect
Place a bowl of ice cubes or a bag of frozen peas in front of a fan to help cool the circulating air.
Reduce heat from cooking
The kitchen is often the warmest room in the house. Make the most of the weather by cooking outdoors on a barbecue and dining al fresco. If you do need to cook indoors, keep pan lids on to reduce heat and humidity.
Turn off your Aga
If you’ve got an Aga and no longer need it during the warmer months, switch it off and arrange for it to be serviced before autumn.
Invest in insulation
Good insulation isn’t just for winter. It also helps keep your home cooler in summer by reducing heat entering the building, while improving energy efficiency throughout the year.
Use sash windows effectively
Research from Imperial College London suggests many people aren’t making the most of traditional sash windows. Open both the top and bottom sections by an equal amount. This allows cooler air to enter through the lower opening while warm air escapes through the top, creating natural ventilation.
Consider temporary air conditioning
Air conditioning is still uncommon in UK homes and can be expensive to install. As hot weather becomes the norm, more new homes are being built with air-conditioning units as standard, but hiring a portable unit can provide welcome relief during prolonged periods of hot weather. Decent portable units start at around £150.
Woodfield Road, London, comes with air conditioning
Reduce heat from electrical appliances
Every electrical device generates heat. Switch off and unplug computers, televisions, chargers, and other electronics when they’re not in use to help keep indoor temperatures down.
Enjoy the Summer
If you’re dreaming of the ultimate way to stay cool, an outdoor swimming pool offers the perfect escape during a heatwave. Contact your local Michael Graham office or browse the website for homes for sale with swimming pools.
The Old Rectory, Aylesbury
