You don’t need air conditioning for this tip to work
UK summers are growing progressively hotter, with heatwaves now becoming a standard feature of the warmer months. Unlike plenty of typically warmer countries around the world, the majority of British homes lack integrated air conditioning systems, and portable fans frequently fail to provide adequate relief.
As a result, keeping indoor spaces like bedrooms cool during hot weather presents a challenge.
Hot spells in the UK can feel especially oppressive because properties are typically constructed to trap heat rather than disperse it. This makes cooling methods that don’t depend on electricity particularly valuable – and thankfully, one very simple technique proves highly effective.
One of the best ways to prevent sun and heat from entering is to manage it consistently throughout the day. Direct sunlight streaming through windows can rapidly transform a room into a greenhouse, particularly during peak afternoon periods, reports the Express.
This is why taking a couple of minutes to draw curtains and lower blinds early in the morning before the sun fully warms the property can be crucial for keeping your home cool.
When sunshine shines through the window, it warms floors, walls and furnishings, which then radiate heat back into the space. By keeping curtains and blinds shut during the warmest portion of the day, you significantly minimise heat absorption.
Blackout curtains or weighted curtains can prove even more successful, though standard curtains can still be effective.
As well as this, it’s crucial to air the property at suitable times. Once outdoor temperatures drop in the evening, it presents the ideal opportunity to open the curtains, blinds and windows.
The most effective method is cross-ventilation, which requires opening windows on opposing sides of your home to create an effective airflow. For those who prefer some natural light, blinds can be angled to minimise glare while still preventing direct sunlight from entering.
Beyond controlling curtains and ventilation, there are additional minor changes that can help make British summers more comfortable. These include steering clear of using ovens or tumble dryers during the warmest hours of the day, and using frozen hot water bottles at night to keep cool.
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