Easy ways to keep your home cool during a British heatwave

As temperatures in Britain have been reaching soaring heights so far this June, we know how you may be battling to keep your home comfortable and cool during the heatwave. There are simple, affordable, and eco-friendly ways to make it more bearable when the temperature rises. At Miller Town and Country we have put together some of our favourite tips to keep your home cool so you can survive the summer with ease.

Close the curtains

One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your house cool during a heatwave is to close the curtains during the hottest part of the day. Sunlight streaming in through windows can heat up your house quickly, so blocking it out will help keep the interior cooler. If you have windows that face the sun, make sure to close the curtains or blinds on those windows first. This will help to reduce the amount of heat that enters your house through those windows, keeping the interior cooler and more comfortable.

Use fans wisely

Fans can provide some much-needed relief during a heatwave, but they can also be a drain on your electricity bill if not used efficiently. Use fans strategically by placing them in rooms where you spend the most time, and position them to blow air towards you. If possible, use a combination of ceiling fans and standing fans to create a cross-breeze. Remember to turn off fans when you leave the room – they only cool people, not rooms!

Turn off heat sources

It's easy to forget that our everyday activities, like cooking and using electronics, can generate a surprising amount of heat. To keep your home cool during a heatwave, be conscious of the heat sources in your house and try to reduce them as much as possible. Avoid using your oven during the hottest parts of the day. Cooking generates a lot of heat and can make your home feel like a sauna.

Instead, opt for outdoor grilling or prepare meals that don't require heat, such as salads and sandwiches. If you do need to cook indoors, use a microwave instead. Another common source of heat is electronics, such as televisions, computers, and gaming consoles. When not in use, turn these devices off completely or unplug them to avoid generating unnecessary heat.

Keep windows open

Opening your windows may seem counterintuitive in hot weather, but it’s an effective way to keep your house cool during a heatwave. Opening windows creates a cross-breeze that promotes air circulation and prevents stagnant air from heating up. It's best to open your windows in the early morning or late evening when the air outside is cooler. You can also open them during the day if the temperature drops or if there's a breeze outside. Make sure you keep your curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to prevent the sun from heating up your home.

It's also important to keep windows and doors closed on the side of your house that faces the sun. This prevents hot air from entering and heating your home. By opening windows strategically, you can keep your house cool without using any energy or spending any money.

We hope that by using these tips you can enjoy more restful sleeps and a cooler home whilst we are enjoying these wonderful summertime temperatures. If you are looking for a ‘hot’ property in either Okehampton or Tavistock then do give our friendly team a call on 01837 54080 or 01822 617243 and we would be happy to chat with you about your property search.