Homes can overheat and become uncomfortable during warmer weather, particularly when you are trying to sleep. Take the following steps to cool your home:
- Place a thermometer in your main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the temperature
- Close external shutters or shades if you have them
- Keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped
- Close blinds and curtains on windows that are exposed to direct sunlight during the day, and keep to the coolest part of your home, especially when sleeping
- Care should be taken with metal blinds and dark curtains, as these can absorb heat – consider replacing or putting reflective material in-between them and the window space
- Open windows (if it is safe to) when the air feels cooler outside than inside, for example at night, and try to get air flowing through your home
- Check that any heating is turned off
- Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment that is not in use
- Keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air
- Use electric fans if the air temperature is below 35°C, but do not aim the fan directly at your body as this can lead to dehydration
- Go outside if it is cooler outside in the shade
Public buildings such as places of worship, local libraries or supermarkets may be cooler than your home.