Keeping your home cool in summer, can sometimes be as big a challenge as keeping it warm in winter.
Explore our top tips, from simple no-cost actions to home improvements you can make to be better prepared for the British summer.
No-cost actions
- Open windows – timing is everything. When the air is cool outside, opening windows on all sides of your home will let the cool air flow through. If the air outside is warmer than the air inside, close your windows to keep the cool air in, and the warm air out.
- Close blinds and curtains – keeping blinds and curtains closed when the sun is shining though the window, will help prevent the sun from warming the room. When the sun moves round, you can open them again.
Home improvements
Insulation
You may think insulation is just for keeping the heat in, but actually it also helps to keep the cool air in your home when it’s hot outside. Insulation works in a similar way to a thermal mug, helping maintain internal temperatures by slowing the rate that heat escapes, or gets in.
Find out more about installing insulation.
Solar film
Adding solar control film to windows helps reduce the warming effect of sunlight coming in through glass windows.
If you don’t want to cover all windows, prioritise those that get the most sunlight.
You can either install this yourself, or contact a professional.
Cooling appliances
Electric fans
Fans can be a low-cost way to keep cool. Rather than cooling the air directly, fans circulate the air, helping you feel cooler.
Running a fan for 24 hours can cost as little as £0.20 – £0.40 a day. If you’re working from home, running a small USB fan from your computer can cost just £0.01 a day.
Energy Saving Trust has more information about the running cost of appliances that help you keep cool, along with more tips for a cool home this summer.
*Prices correct for as of July 2023 based on energy prices set by Ofgem’s price cap running from 1 July to the end of September 2023 (electricity price of 30p/kWh and a gas price of 8p/kWh). Appliances’ cost per use is determined using energy consumed for each appliance based on 24 hours of continuous use on a standard setting.
-
Solar energy
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular across London, allowing you to generate your own renewable electricity and heat from the sun. Find out whether solar panels could work for you.
-
Understand your energy bill
It’s more important than ever to check that your energy bills are accurate, not only to stay informed and in control of how much energy you’re using, but also to ensure you’re not paying too much.
-
Use less water
Did you know that your water use contributes to your energy bills? Find out how to save water at home, helping to lower your water bill if you’re on a meter and cut your energy use.
-
Use less energy
One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy bill is to use less energy. Follow our quick and simple ways to reduce how much energy you use at home and start saving on your bills today.
-
Financial Support
Whether you’re looking for help to pay your energy bills or make energy efficiency home improvements, there’s a wide range of financial support available to households in London.
Find out more about these schemes, including eligibility, below.
-
Local Support
Use our handy directory of services to find support in your local area.