As extreme temperatures continue across the country, properties in Britain are not suitable for the UK heatwave. In this article, PBC Today explains how to keep your property cool in hot weather
As temperatures reach up to 40C (104 Fahrenheit) in some areas of the UK, it is especially important to keep our homes as cool as possible.
Five ways to keep your house cool during a heatwave
1. Close windows and blinds in the morning
Few British homes are built to withstand high temperatures – rather, they are built to trap heat in.
In the morning, it is advised that homeowners should close all windows and blinds to keep out direct sunlight and heat before peak outdoor temperature is reached. This is because windows heat the air inside the property, and having windows open encourages the hot air to circulate around your home.
2. Open up doors and windows when it gets cooler
Whilst it is advised that homeowners should close windows during the day, it is encouraged to reopen windows in the evening to let the cooler air circulate around the property.
3. Invest in a fan
As most homes in Britain are not fitted with air conditioning to aid in the UK heatwave, a fan is the next best option.
In order to make the air cooler, it is recommended that you place a bowl of icy water in front of your fan.
4. Turn off appliances and lights when not in use
Lights and electrical appliances generate extra heat when switched on, so it is recommended to turn them off when not in use to help to keep the room cool.
5. Place towels and flannels in the freezer
Temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-twenties in some regions of the UK during the night. This puts extra pressure on the body – known as heat stress – so it is important to stay cool during the evening.
Putting towels and flannels in the freezer for a couple of hours before you go to bed will help to regulate body temperature before you fall asleep.
