Forum Topic

Keep Your Cool in Heatwaves

https://actforealing.org/2026/06/11/keep-your-cool-in-heatwaves-in-ealing/

Philippa Bond ● 2d7 Comments

I wonder how many illegal loft conversions there are ie they don't have either or both Building Regulations or Planning Consent?

Philippa Bond ● 8h

That certainly helps,but taking off the loft hatch cover is not recommended by the fire brigade.

Keith Iddon ● 1d

An elderly friend living in a bungalow during hot weather would always get someone to open the loft trapdoor to allow the hot air from downstairs to rise up and be drawn out.

Philippa Bond ● 1d

That depends on how hot the temperature and the air is and on which side of your house the sun is shining.  The early morning sun can heat up your house before you've even got up if you haven't closed the curtains on one side while on the other there can be a much cooler breeze.  I wouldn't bother opening the windows fully as that doesn't help.It also depends on your windows and window glass.  A couple of inches at the top and bottom with the blinds down can work well.

Philippa Bond ● 1d

Spot on. Ask any Greek or Spanish person and they will tell you that letting outside air in during excessive heat periods will warm your house up quicker than putting another log on the fire.

Simon Hayes ● 2d

It’s not counter-intuitive, it’s basic common sense. Shut windows, blinds or curtains to stop sun coming in to keep rooms cooler. Same applies to the nonsense about opening sash windows at top and bottom to allow cool air in and hot air out. If it’s hotter outside than inside, you don’t want to let any air in.

Peter Millman ● 2d

If you have reasonably insulated rooms, just don't open your windows during the day, keep them and your curtains closed. Counter-intuitive I know, but you'll be anything from 3 to 7 degrees cooler inside.      😉

Rosco White ● 2d