UK homes are generally built to keep heat in (Image: iiievgeniy via Getty Images)
With the UK enduring its third heatwave of the summer, with temperatures once again reaching 35C in certain parts of the country, millions of households face the prospect of becoming unbearably warm, particularly those not built to cope with extreme heat. However, a straightforward adjustment to your daily window routine, combined with a few minimal-effort modifications, could help lower indoor temperatures and boost comfort during the approaching heatwave, according to a ventilation expert.
From adopting smarter ventilation habits to eliminating hidden heat sources, the guidance is intended to assist households in staying cool without depending heavily on fans and air conditioning.
Ruth MacEachern, ventilation specialist at envirovent, has revealed six expert-backed tips to keep your home cool during warmer weather.
How to cool your house during a UK heatwave
Follow a window routine
Opening and closing your windows at the correct times can make a considerable difference to indoor temperatures and remains one of the most reliable methods of preventing heat from building up.
“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.
Ruth MacEachern (Image: Envirovent)
“Open your windows early in the mornings and late evenings when the temperatures drop and keep them closed mid-day when it’s at its hottest to prevent warm air entering. This helps to regulate the airflow and reduces heat build-up inside.”
Try the ‘damp sheet’ cooling trick
Hanging a damp sheet in front of an open window can assist in cooling the air as it enters your home.
Ruth said: “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.
“Keeping your home well-ventilated during a heatwave is key to preventing temperatures from rising too much. Small changes can have a big impact, helping to keep your home cool and manageable during warmer periods.”
Block out the heat with blinds and curtains
In sun-facing rooms, direct sunlight can rapidly transform spaces into stifling heat traps.
Ruth said: “Keep your curtains and blinds shut during peak sunshine hours to block out excess heat and maintain a more comfortable temperature indoors. Blackout fabrics are effective and could be worth swapping in if certain rooms get particularly hot.”
Limit invisible heat sources
Numerous everyday household appliances produce heat without us even noticing, contributing to the overall temperature within a home. Ruth said: “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.”
Create a cooling cross-breeze
Establishing airflow throughout your property is one of the most straightforward methods to bring the temperature down.
Ruth said: “Open 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 when outdoor temperatures are cooler.
“For multi-story homes, create a vertical cross-breeze by opening ground-floor windows on the shaded side of your home as well as top-floor windows. This helps to draw cool air in at the bottom and pushes warm air out, as it rises, at the top.”
Maintaining a cool internal body temperature is every bit as crucial as lowering the heat within your home.
Ruth said: “Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day and wear breathable clothing to help regulate your internal temperature. A hot water bottle can also be used in warmer weather.
“Fill it with cold water or put it in the freezer and place it in your bed to cool it down. Quick tricks like placing towels in the freezer and then applying them to pulse points can provide quick relief to the heat and taking lukewarm showers can similarly help.
“It’s also important to consider pets during warmer weather. Avoid walking dogs during the hottest part of the day, opt for early morning or evening outings instead, and make sure they have access to shaded, well-ventilated spaces indoors. Frozen treats or chilled mats can also help to keep them comfortable as temperatures rise.”