With red weather warnings for extreme heat in London and across the UK, British Gas has shared a simple yet effective natural cooling trick: hanging a damp white sheet in front of an open window during the evening. This helps cool incoming air naturally, according to Peter Knowles, Service and Repair Engineer at British Gas.
Knowles explains: 'We all know how frustrating it is when our homes are hot and stuffy. The good news is that there are some practical steps that households can take to help keep inside temperatures down during the summer months.'
Additional Cooling Tips from British Gas
Knowles recommends reflective window film for south and west-facing windows that catch afternoon sun. He also suggests doing laundry in the evening, keeping windows closed during the middle of the day, and placing fans on the floor to circulate cooler air.
Switch to LED Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs generate substantial heat. A 60-watt incandescent bulb produces about 50 watts of heat, while an LED with comparable brightness emits only 1-2 watts. Smart lightbulbs controlled via apps are another alternative.
Unplug Devices and Adjust Cooking Habits
Chargers, laptops, and other devices left plugged in release ambient heat. During a heatwave, unplugging unused devices helps keep rooms cooler. Knowles advises batch cooking early morning or late evening, air-drying laundry outdoors, and embracing lighter meals.
Help Your Fridge Run Efficiently
When it's hot, fridges work harder and generate more heat. Keep the thermostat set correctly, clean dust from coils, and defrost regularly to improve efficiency and reduce excess heat.
Window and Fan Strategies
Keep windows closed during the day to prevent warm air from entering. Light-coloured curtains or blinds with thicker materials block heat effectively. Place fans at floor level; in the evening, point a fan out the window to push hot air out. Opening windows at night creates natural ventilation.
Adapt Living Spaces
Cover leather sofas with light, breathable cotton or linen throws to boost comfort. Move activities outside where possible to avoid generating unnecessary indoor heat.
