Closing your curtains for just five seconds each morning can prevent your home from becoming hot and humid during the July heatwave, according to Westminster City Council. The simple, free method reduces the need for costly fans or air conditioning units, which can drive up electricity bills during summer.
Why Curtains Are Effective
Westminster City Council advises: “Use window covers to stop the heat entering your property. Keeping blinds and curtains closed throughout the day can keep a room cool.” Most heat in UK homes enters through windows, as sunlight passes through glass and warms floors, walls, and surfaces. British homes are designed to trap heat, creating a greenhouse effect that makes indoor spaces stuffy.
Many people leave windows open all day during a heatwave, but this is often ineffective because it allows hot air to flow inside. Instead, the council recommends keeping windows and curtains drawn during the day to block solar radiation. Once temperatures drop in the afternoon or evening, open windows to let cool air in and hot air out.
How to Implement the Method
To keep your home cool, open windows only in the early morning or late evening when outside temperatures are lower. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of the house and leaving internal doors open. When the sun rises, close curtains to block direct sunlight. For extra shade, hang a towel or bedsheet over the window before closing the curtains.
If you worry about darkness, keep north-facing curtains open as they receive little direct sunlight. South-facing windows get the most light, east-facing windows are brightest in the morning, and west-facing ones in the afternoon. Adjust which curtains you close based on the time of day to balance coolness and natural light.
Additional Tips for Summer Savings
Fans and air conditioning units can be expensive to run, especially during prolonged heatwaves. The UK has experienced record-breaking temperatures in recent weeks, prompting more households to purchase cooling devices. However, the curtain method offers a zero-cost alternative that can significantly reduce indoor temperatures without increasing energy bills.
Westminster City Council also suggests keeping all windows covered during the day and opening them only when the outdoor air is cooler. This approach helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment while avoiding the high costs associated with mechanical cooling. By taking a few seconds each morning to draw your curtains, you can stay cool all day without worrying about your next energy bill.
