PROPERTY GUIDE | Keeping cool at home

It’s crucial to keep cool in hot weather to prevent your body from overheating, which can lead to serious, even fatal, conditions like heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, and can worsen existing issues like heart or lung disease.

Keeping cool prevents your body’s internal temperature from rising dangerously high, protecting vital organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys from stress and potential damage, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses.

Keep the windows closed and draw the curtains

Although it may be tempting to open the windows as soon as the temperature rises, doing so can backfire. To maintain a cool house, it is crucial to keep the hot air outside.

This entails keeping the windows closed during the day, especially if they face south. Additionally, keep the blinds and curtains drawn. Once the temperature drops at night, you can open the windows and allow fresh air to circulate.

Create a cross-breeze throughout the house

While we recommend keeping the windows closed as much as possible, we understand the desire for a refreshing breeze during hot weather.

If you need to open the windows, do so strategically to create a flow of air throughout the house. Open windows on opposite sides of the house or room, and keep the doors open to allow air movement.

Place bowls of water around the house

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.

Switch to energy-efficient LEDs when replacing lightbulbs

Did you know that traditional incandescent light bulbs are highly inefficient, with up to 90 per cent of their energy being emitted as heat?

On the other hand, energy-saving light bulbs convert 90 per cent of the energy into light. When your old bulbs burn out, consider replacing them with low-energy options. These bulbs generate less heat and consume less energy.

Invest in a fan and use it wisely

Electric fans can be a lifesaver during the summer months. However, since they consume energy, it’s important to use them efficiently.

Heat rises, so the coolest air in your house will be near the floor. If you have a fan, place it on the floor and direct it upwards. Position it to blow air towards the opposite wall, ensuring no large objects obstruct the airflow.

This will cause cooler air to bounce off the wall and circulate back into the room, mixing with the warm air and helping to lower the temperature.

Sleeping in the heat

Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial, especially during hot summer nights. We’ve all experienced restless tossing and turning, which is far from ideal.

Here are two ways to keep your bedroom and yourself cool during the summer.

Take a cold shower before bedtime

Sometimes, tricking your body into feeling cooler is the best way to combat the heat. Taking a quick cold shower just before going to bed can help achieve this.

Be cautious not to make the water too cold, and avoid doing this immediately after being exposed to intense heat, as rapid changes in body temperature can be unhealthy.

Transform your hot water bottle into an ice pack

Believe it or not, a hot water bottle can also be used to cool down. Fill it with water and place it in the freezer a few hours before bedtime.

Once frozen, it will emit coldness in the same way it releases heat when filled with hot water. Put the ice pack in your bed before getting in or position it under your feet to help regulate your body temperature as you drift off to sleep.

Window insulation

Energy-efficient windows have the advantage of keeping the heat inside your home during the winter and effectively blocking the sun’s heat during the summer.

If you are thinking about replacing your windows, check out our comprehensive guide to energy-efficient windows and doors.

Awnings and shutters

Installing awnings or shutters can provide maximum shade and protection from the sun’s rays. These additions are an excellent way to stay cool without relying on electricity.

Wall insulation

While most people associate insulation with retaining heat during cold weather, it is equally effective at keeping heat out.

If possible, consider investing in insulation for your walls. Take a look at our guides on roof and loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and solid wall insulation for more information.