Weâve seen an increase in extreme temperatures here in the UK, and 2022 was Englandâs joint warmest summer on record. It was also the driest since 1976.
These warm summer seasons, where 40°C becomes a regular sight on a thermometer, are expected to become a regular occurrence. The reason for this is global warming. In fact, scientists predict that there’s a 66% chance of the world passing the 1.5°C global warming threshold between now and 2027.
Weâre about to enter summer 2023 and thereâs a chance that we could experience hot weather again. To manage the rising temperatures at home, itâs worth thinking about how to keep things cool now.
Why consider keeping cool?
There are several reasons why itâs worth taking steps now to keep your home comfortable later. First, weâve been here before. If you found it particularly difficult to manage the heat in your home last summer, itâs worth taking the steps to prepare before everyoneâs rushing to buy the essentials again.
Also, if you work from home, thereâs an additional need to stay comfortable during the day when the sun is at its strongest. Preparing now means youâre more likely to remain focused and able to work through the warmest days.
Additionally, if you plan ahead now, youâll know what to do in the coming summers when itâs likely that weâll see those higher temperatures return again and again.
What are the best ways to keep cool?
There are some ways to cool down when things are hotting up outside. Not all of these will mean you have to buy anything new.
However, if you do invest in things to keep cool, itâs worth establishing a budget, especially for major purchases. You might want to think about buying big ticket purchases using your savings, or it may be that you buy on a credit card. There are also ways you can save up, which will also boost your credit score in the long run. As long as you can keep up with any payments, you will find that these could be useful additions to your home.
Get an air conditioning unit
You might not have given in and bought air conditioning last year. After all Britain isnât known for being the hottest of places usually, which is why we have carpets rather than the tiles you see in homes across Spain, for example.
Install a small air conditioning unit now before the temperatures soar. You can select one that suits your budget, but itâs definitely an investment if these hot summers become typical.
Keep your blinds closed
We donât always see a lot of sun and it can be tempting to let the light in, but keeping blinds and curtains drawn during the day will keep your home cool.
Check your ceiling fans
If you have a ceiling fan, make sure itâs blowing the right way. If you donât have a fan like this, you might decide to buy one. Alternatively, standing fans placed close to a bowl of ice water can help to blow the chilled air around.
Open your home in the evening
Once the sun sets and the temperatures come down, open windows and doors to let the cooler air flow through.
How to keep yourself cool at home
As well as cooling your home down, youâll need to cool yourself down too.
Drink lots of water
Drink water throughout the day. This will keep you hydrated.
Dress appropriately
Dress for the weather. You donât need layers and, even if you have a video call to make for work, you can still wear something light on top and shorts where the camera isnât focused.
Take breaks
Taking regular breaks is important. It can be difficult to concentrate when youâre too warm or feeling uncomfortable, so stop whatever youâre doing, whether thatâs work or household jobs and have five minutes to cool down.
Jordan Avery
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