UK households urged to keep windows and doors closed from Thursday

The heatwave is set to make a comeback across the UK, with temperatures expected to rise starting Tuesday and reaching a scorching 29C by Thursday, continuing into the weekend. As the mercury soars, households in England and throughout the UK are advised to keep their windows, curtains, and blinds shut this coming Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

After a brief respite with cooler weather and rain showers over the past few weeks, which proved beneficial for gardeners if not for barbecues, the south of England is particularly warned to prepare for 30C heat this Thursday. This hot spell is expected to linger for several days, with temperatures hovering around 29C on both Friday and Saturday.

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On Thursday, July 10, the Met Office forecasts 30C conditions in London, with several other parts of the UK also predicted to experience hot weather. The heatwave will persist on Friday, July 11, with temperatures remaining at 29C, and continue into the weekend with similar temperatures on Saturday.

How to keep your house cool in a heatwave

Given these conditions, households in England are encouraged to take measures to keep their homes cool during the sunny spell, reports the Express.

One effective strategy is to close windows and draw curtains or blinds during the sunniest periods, strategically open windows in shaded areas, and fully open all windows again in the evening when outdoor temperatures drop.

Energy provider OVO has issued advice on how to keep homes cool during the warmer months, cautioning against a common impulse: "Tempting as it is to fling open the windows at the first sign of summer, it's not actually the best idea. To keep your house cool, you need to keep the hot air out."

They advise: "This means keeping windows closed during the day - particularly south-facing windows. Keep curtains, blinds and windows shut when the sun is shining directly on them, and when you're out. Try opening windows on the most shaded side of your home, to avoid sunlight and hot air getting in."

Which windows should I close during hot weather

Andy Kerr, founder of BOXT, sheds light on the issue: "Getting rid of unwanted heat in your home can be difficult in the summer months, especially when most UK properties are built to retain heat.

"While grabbing a fan or opening up all your windows are often mentioned as effective ways to cool your home, these methods may not result in the desired results."

He elaborates: "To help homeowners keep cool as the warmer months approach, we have revealed which common home cooling hacks are myths and why they don't work so you can avoid them this summer."

Mr Kerr warns: "When temperatures are particularly warm, opening up all your windows will let more hot air into your home, heating up your home and making you feel warmer."

He suggests a smarter approach: "Instead of opening all your windows, it is much better to strategically open windows to create cross breezes throughout the day and open your windows during the night to let cooler air in."