The cheap cooling tip uses items most households probably have to hand
People might stay cooler during the heatwave with this tip(Image: Getty Images)
When temperatures finally warm up, people usually dream of garden barbecues or relaxing outdoors. However, when the heat gets to be too much, people are often faced with the same problem across the UK – sweltering feelings that seem inescapable in homes.
The majority of UK properties are not designed for hot conditions, often trapping heat rather than allowing it to dissipate. And according to the most recent Met Office predictions, certain regions could see temperatures climb as high as 40°C.
British Gas engineer Peter Knowles suggests several strategies that might help Britons who aren’t finding adequate relief from a fan running at maximum speed. One approach might appear somewhat unusual, yet the expert maintains it can prove effective, reports the Express.
He said: “We all know how frustrating it is when our homes are hot and stuffy. The good news is that there are some practical steps that households can take to help keep indoor temperatures down during the summer months.
“Things like doing your washing in the evening, keeping windows closed during the middle of the day or putting your fans on the floor are all small changes that can make a real difference.”
Peter explained: “Hanging a damp sheet in front of an open window during evening hours will help to cool incoming air naturally. For south and west-facing windows that catch afternoon sun, you could also consider reflective window film to reduce heat and glare.
How to do this effectively:
- Soak and wring: Soak a clean cotton or lightweight sheet in cold water. Wring it out thoroughly so it is damp, but not dripping.
- Create a breeze: Position the sheet across an open window frame. To get the best results, place a fan blowing air through the sheet and into the room.
- Refresh: You may need to re-dampen the sheet every few hours as the moisture evaporates
What other tips can help UK homes feel cooler?
British Gas has shared several tips for UK homeowners to try during the summer months. Some need a little forward planning, while others can bring almost immediate relief from the persistent heat at night.
Switch to cooler lighting if you can: Traditional light bulbs generate a surprising amount of heat. A 60-watt incandescent bulb can release around 50 watts of heat into a room, while an LED with the same brightness emits just 1-2 watts, so it’s worth considering switching over.
Unplug heat-generating devices: Chargers, laptops and other devices that are plugged in release ambient heat even when not actively in use. During a heatwave, multiple devices can contribute to that stuffy feeling, so unplugging what you’re not using will help keep rooms a bit cooler.
Save batch cooking and washing for the start and end of the day: Using ovens, hobs, tumble dryers and washing machines during the coolest parts of the day prevents adding extra heat when temperatures peak. Batch-cook early morning or late evening, air-dry laundry outdoors when possible, and embrace lighter meals that don’t require cooking during the hottest hours.
Keep windows closed during the day: It might feel contradictory, but during the daytime, it’s best to keep windows closed to prevent warm air from entering your home. If you’ve got light-coloured curtains or blinds in heavier fabrics, they can also be effective at blocking heat, if they’re kept closed.
Position fans thoughtfully: Place them at floor level to circulate cooler air rather than pushing warm air up to head height. In the evening, try pointing a fan out of the window to push hot air out. Opening windows at night also provides natural ventilation without running fans constantly.