10 Genius Hacks to Keep Your Home Cool this UK Summer

As the UK summer arrives, many people look forward to long sunny days and warm evenings. However, rising temperatures can transform our cosy homes into uncomfortable heat traps. Fortunately, there are some clever hacks you can use to keep your home cool without depending on air conditioning. Let’s explore these effective tips that will help you enjoy a comfortable summer!

1. Close the Curtains

One of the easiest ways to keep your home cooler is by closing the curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Research shows that high temperatures can raise indoor heat by as much as 20%. Light-coloured or reflective curtains can bounce sunlight back outside, or simply taping tin foil over your windows will make your rooms significantly cooler.

Don't forget to adjust your curtains or blinds as the sun moves. This simple habit can save you on cooling costs and improve comfort.

2. Create a Cross Breeze

You can effectively use the wind by creating a cross breeze in your home. Open windows on opposite sides of your house to let fresh air flow through. Place one fan facing outward in one window and another fan facing inward in the opposite window. This method can lower indoor temperatures by pulling in cooler outside air and pushing out hot air.

It’s most effective when used during the evenings or early mornings when outside temperatures are typically cooler. You might be surprised how much of a difference this can make.

3. Use Smart Ventilation

Installing roof vents or using extractor fans is a smart way to manage heat. Many homes have areas that trap heat, particularly kitchens and bathrooms. By allowing hot air to escape quickly through ventilation systems, you can keep your indoor environment cooler.

For example, simply using your kitchen extractor fan while cooking can help reduce heat build-up by up to 30%, making your evenings much more pleasant.

4. Turn Off Heat-Producing Appliances

Household appliances can significantly raise indoor temperatures. Ovens, dryers, and even laptops generate considerable heat while they operate. To maintain a cooler home, limit the use of these appliances during peak heat hours.

Consider preparing cold meals or grilling outdoors instead. You can shave off several degrees of warmth just by changing how you cook during hot days.

5. Invest in Air-Purifying Plants

Houseplants are not only beautiful but also help cool the air naturally through a process called transpiration. For example, plants like peace lilies, snake plants, and spider plants can improve indoor air quality while lowering temperatures.

Studies show that having indoor plants can reduce stress levels by 37%, making your home feel more comfortable overall. Plus, they add a splash of greenery to your space!

6. Swap Out Heavy Bedding

When it comes to summer bedding, choose breathable materials like cotton or linen over heavier fabrics. These lighter options promote good airflow and can help regulate body temperature while you sleep. Changing bed linens regularly can also contribute to comfort.

7. Create an Outdoor Space

If you have access to a garden or patio, make the most of it! Setting up comfortable outdoor furniture allows you to escape the heat indoors. Adding shade with umbrellas not only enhances your outdoor experience but also keeps you cool.

Setting up a small outdoor living area can provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy summer evenings without the discomfort of indoor heat.

P.S. Furzedown Builders specialises in Deck & Patio Construction!

8. Seal Out Heat with Draft Stoppers

Drafts aren't just for winter. Hot air can sneak in through gaps under doors and windows during summer. Using draft stoppers helps block this warm air from entering and can lower indoor temperatures by several degrees.

Making your own draft stoppers is simple and can provide significant comfort with just a little effort.

9. Shower with Cool Water

This might seem like an obvious tip, but taking a cool shower can quickly help lower your body temperature. It not only provides instant relief but also refreshes you, making you feel more comfortable in the heat.

Leave the bathroom door open to let that cool air flow out and lower the overall temperature in your home.

10. Use Ice in Front of the Fan

For a fun DIY cooling trick, tape a bottle of water straight from the freezer, or place a bowl of ice, in front of a fan. As the ice melts, the fan will circulate cool air throughout the room. This simple technique can lower the temperature noticeably.

As hot air rises and cool air falls, placing a floor fan at an upward angle helps push cool air upwards. Coupled with opening a window close to the ceiling, allowing hot air to escape, proves as an effective airflow strategy!

Staying Cool this Summer

Keeping your house cool during the UK summer is achievable with these ten practical hacks. Incorporating even a few of these strategies can make your home a comfortable retreat from the heat. Take it step by step, and at Furzedown Builders, we wish you a relaxing and pleasant summer!