Image of a town in silhouette, with a reddened background and sun overhead, representing the effect of a heatwave on homes.

10 Tips to Keep Your Home Cool in Heatwaves

ByLee Hill Updated on

As climate change takes affect the frequency and intensity of heatwaves is increasing. This makes the ability to keep your home cool more than a matter of comfort, it’s a necessity.

Here are 10 effective tips to keep your home cool in a heatwave, with actionable steps for each.

1. Open Windows Strategically

Why It Works: Opening windows at the right times encourages cross-ventilation and draws cooler air in.

How To Do It:

  • Open windows in the early morning and late evening when outside temperatures are lower.
  • Create airflow by opening windows on opposite sides of the house.
  • Use fans to help move air through the space.

2. Close Blinds & Curtains During the Day

Why It Works: Around 30% of unwanted heat comes from windows. Keeping blinds or curtains closed, especially those that face the sun, can reduce indoor temperatures significantly.

How To Do It:

  • Use blackout curtains or thermal blinds for the best results.
  • Keep them closed from mid-morning to late afternoon when the sun is strongest.
  • Consider reflective or white blinds to bounce sunlight away.
Data trend image representing a heatwave in occurring in recorded temperatures.

3. Use Fans Wisely

Why It Works: Fans don’t lower room temperature, but they make you feel cooler by evaporating sweat.

How To Do It:

  • Position box or oscillating fans to face outwards during the day to push hot air out.
  • At night, turn fans inward to draw in cooler air.
  • Place a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of the fan to create a DIY air cooler.

4. Turn Off Heat-Producing Appliances

Why It Works: Many appliances give off heat, even when not in use, adding to indoor temperatures.

How To Do It:

  • Unplug unused electronics and avoid using the oven or stove during peak heat.
  • Choose no-cook meals, or use a microwave, slow cooker, or outdoor grill instead.
  • Turn off lights when not needed. Use LEDs for lighting if you can. They are cooler than incandescent bulbs.
Image of LED light being held up in a dark setting, a more efficient form of lighting that generates less heat.

5. Switch to Light-Coloured Bedding & Fabrics

Why It Works: Lighter colours reflect heat, while darker ones absorb it.

How To Do It:

  • Use cotton or linen sheets in light colours for breathability and cooling.
  • Avoid heavy blankets or flannel fabrics during summer months.

6. Seal Gaps & Insulate Properly

Why It Works: Insulation isn’t just for winter, it also helps keep heat out during summer.

How To Do It:

  • Seal gaps around doors and windows with weather stripping or caulk.
  • Check attic insulation to ensure it’s adequate for summer heat.
  • Add draft excluders to doors to prevent hot air infiltration.

7. Create Shade Outside Your Home

Why It Works: Blocking the sun before it hits your home can reduce indoor temperatures significantly.

How To Do It:

  • Use outdoor blinds, awnings, or shade sails over windows and patios.
  • Plant trees or tall shrubs in front of sun-facing windows for long-term shade.
  • Install window boxes with cascading plants to cool walls.
Sketch style digital art image, displaying a home with various sustainability features, including shading from both canopies and natural planting.

8. Cool Yourself, Not Just the Room

Why It Works: Regulating your body temperature is key when the house is hot.

How To Do It:

  • Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  • Use a damp cloth on your neck and wrists, or take a cool shower.
  • Wear loose, breathable clothing indoors.

9. Use the Loft Hatch Trick

Why It Works: Hot air rises and can accumulate in upper areas of the home.

How To Do It:

  • Open the loft hatch (if safe to do so) to allow rising hot air to escape from the house.
  • Combine with fan use to push hot air upwards and out.

10. Install Reflective Window Film

Why It Works: Reflective films reduce solar gain through windows, limiting temperature increases caused by sunlight.

How To Do It:

  • You can purchase DIY reflective film kits from hardware stores. Professional installers are also available.
  • Apply them to sun-facing windows, if safe for you to do so, for instant heat reduction.
  • Some films are removable and reusable for seasonal use.

Heatwaves: Adapting to a Warming World

Image graphic showing silhouette of face in shadow, transitioning to blue in colour, representing transition to a cooling home in a heatwave.

As climate change leads to more extreme weather, including frequent heatwaves, it’s essential to make our homes more resilient.

By implementing these 10 practical tips, you can protect your home, and your health, during heatwaves while contributing to a more sustainable future.

Plus, adopting energy-efficient cooling strategies not only keeps you comfortable. It can also help reduce reliance on air conditioning, lowering your carbon footprint and energy bills.

Editors Recommended Posts:

Sustainable Living: Practical Actions That Save You Money

Home Improvements & Actions to Support Nature

Make My Home Sustainable: Practical Guide to Getting Started

Lastly, for more handy sustainability tips and insights, follow us on our social media channels:

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