Ways to keep your home cool in the Summer
Thu 15 Jun 2023
Hands up who’s enjoying this sunshine. We are lucky enough to work in air conditioned offices at Benfleet and Hockley here at Williams and Donovan Estate Agents, and it is very much appreciated!
We also have the added benefit of living in Essex, so beaches are never far away.
It’s at home you may be struggling to stay cool, but there are ways in which you can help keep your home cool during the summer, you can take several measures to reduce heat buildup and improve ventilation.
Here are some effective tips:
1. Close windows and curtains: During the hottest parts of the day, keep your windows, blinds, or curtains closed to prevent the sun's heat from entering your home. This helps create a barrier against the outside heat.
2. Use natural ventilation: In the early morning and late evening when it's cooler outside, open your windows and let fresh air circulate throughout your home. Consider using window fans or creating cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of your home to promote airflow.
3. Install window coverings: Reflective window films or shades can help block out the sun's heat. They are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce the amount of heat entering your home.
4. Optimise insulation: Good insulation in your home helps keep the cool air in and the hot air out. Insulate your attic and walls to prevent heat transfer. Seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and other areas to minimize heat infiltration.
5. Use natural shading: Planting trees or installing awnings or shades on the outside of windows can help block direct sunlight and reduce heat gain. Deciduous trees are especially useful as they provide shade in the summer and allow sunlight through during the winter.
6. Limit heat-producing activities: Appliances like ovens, dryers, and dishwashers generate heat. To minimize heat buildup, avoid using these appliances during the hottest times of the day. Instead, opt for BBQ’s outdoors, or air-drying your clothes.
7. Opt for energy-efficient lighting: Incandescent bulbs produce a significant amount of heat. Replace them with energy-efficient LED bulbs that emit less heat and consume less electricity.
8. Consider air conditioning: If possible, invest in an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Set the temperature to a comfortable level and use programmable thermostats to regulate cooling when needed. Maintain your AC system regularly to ensure it operates efficiently.
These measures can also work well if you are preparing your home for sale and carrying out viewings.
If you’re thinking about selling, don't let the warmer weather put you off. Summer is one of the best times to show off your home.