Keep Your House Cool in a Heat Wave (No Air Con Needed)

It’s roasting outside and most of us in the UK don’t have air con. Here’s what I actually do to keep my house bearable during a heat wave and some of it might surprise you. Disclaimer: I’m no expert — this is just what I do in my own home. Please do your own research before trying any of these methods, particularly the window foil technique. If done incorrectly it can potentially cause damage, and if you’re renting always check with your landlord first. We’re talking curtains closed during the day, windows open only at night when the temperature drops, tinfoil on the windows (yes, really), and how to use fans effectively rather than just pointing them at yourself and hoping for the best. These are real techniques I use myself. There’s also a bit of discipline involved — most people instinctively do the opposite of what actually works, and that’s what keeps their house sweltering. Once you understand the logic behind it, it clicks. No expensive kit, no portable AC unit. Just some practical thinking about heat and airflow.