If your home’s been feeling more like a greenhouse than a cosy retreat lately, you’re not alone. UK houses are brilliant at keeping the warmth in during winter, but in summer? Not so much.
The good news is you don’t have to spend thousands or live in a fridge to feel comfortable. There are quick, cheap fixes that actually work.
Why our homes feel like ovens
Most UK homes were built to trap heat, which was great when winters were long and chilly. But now we’re getting hotter summers, those same design choices turn our living rooms into sweat lodges. The solution isn’t always pricey gadgets - sometimes it’s just knowing the right tricks.
Cool-down hacks that won’t cost the earth
- Close it out – Shut your blinds or curtains before the sun hits. Thick blinds or shutters are champions at keeping heat outside where it belongs.
- Reflect the sun – Stick some reflective film on windows or give outside walls a lighter paint job. It’s amazing how much cooler a room feels when the sunlight bounces away.
- Green up your space – A bit of well-placed greenery can be a game-changer. Potted plants by windows, climbing vines, or even a small tree can throw shade and soak up heat.
- Switch the switch – Got a heat pump? Many can run in reverse and cool the place down. You might already have AC and not even know it.
The money bit
These fixes are low-cost, quick to set up, and save you money on cooling. Instead of running fans all day or investing in full-blown air-con, you’re making small changes that add up over summer after summer.
Where to start
Try closing curtains in sunny rooms for a few days and see if it makes a difference. Add some greenery or try reflective window film next. And if you’ve got the Tandem app, check out the Green Home Plan. It’ll give you personalised steps to make your home cooler and more energy-efficient.
Keeping cool doesn’t have to be complicated — or expensive. A few tweaks now and you’ll be able to enjoy the summer without melting into the sofa.
.png)
.png)
.png)
