Summer can be enjoyable, but heatwaves can quickly make your home uncomfortable and even impact your health. Here are five ways to help you stay cooler:
1. Let cool air in
Encourage airflow by opening windows on opposite sides of your home, ideally overnight or early morning when outdoor temperatures are lower. This pushes warm air out and brings cooler air in. Opening a loft hatch can also allow heat to escape. If you only have one window, opening internal doors can improve circulation.
2. Keep the heat out
A simple and effective measure is closing curtains or blinds on the sunny side of your home. During the hottest part of the day (typically late morning to early evening), keep windows closed if the air is warmer outside than inside to prevent heat entering.
3. Use a fan effectively
Fans are inexpensive to run (often under 2p per hour). For extra relief, place a bowl of ice or ice packs in front of the fan (at a safe distance) to cool the air being circulated. When it’s cooler outside, a fan near an open window can help draw in fresh air.
4. Take a break from the heat
If your home becomes too hot, spend some time in cooler, air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries or leisure centres.
5. Improve insulation
Well-insulated homes stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter. You could consider:
- Upgrading wall and roof insulation or installing energy-efficient windows (e.g. low-emissivity glass)
- Improving ventilation with extractor fans or vents
- Adding shutters or external shading
- Installing solar panels to offset increased cooling costs
Visit the Citizens Advice website for details of available grants and schemes.
Citizens Advice helps with a range of issues. For information and self-help guidance, visit citizensadvice.org.uk. To speak to a local adviser in the Stroud and Cotswold Districts, visit citizensadvice-stroudandcotswold.org.uk to complete our webform or call us on 0808 800 0510.
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