Is your home at risk of overheating this summer?

This week looks set to be another scorcher, with highs of up to 34°C forecast in some parts of the country.

But staying cool in these temperatures can be a real challenge for some – especially if you’re on a low income.

According to the Resolution Foundation, nearly half (48%) of the poorest fifth of English households live in homes likely to overheat.

That compares with just 17% of the richest fifth.

How many homes could overheat this summer?

One in five homes in England already overheat during current summer temperatures. 

And a third (32%) have features, such as poor ventilation, a small size and overcrowding - that could put them at risk in future summers.

Who’s most at risk?

Social renters are at the biggest risk, as two-thirds live in homes at high risk of overheating.

But private renters aren’t far behind, with more than half (55%) of homes vulnerable to soaring temperatures.

By contrast, you’re much less likely to live in a home that overheats if you own the property (17%).

Families with young children are also at risk, as six in ten live in homes that could get too hot.

And almost half of minority ethnic households face the same problem.

Where you live is another factor.

Over half (53%) of homes in London are at risk due to the urban heat island effect, compared with less than a third (31%) outside the capital.

How to keep your home cooler this summer

If temperatures are soaring, there are a few ways to keep cool that don’t cost lots of money.

Let cool air in the house

Open windows on opposite sides of your home early in the morning or late in the evening, when outside air is cooler than inside. 

This can help to flush out warm air that’s trapped in your house.
 
If you live in a flat with windows on one side, keep internal doors open and use a fan to push air through. 

Keep hot air out during the day

When the sun is at its strongest, keep windows shut and blinds or curtains drawn, especially on the side of your home that faces the sun.

This helps stop your rooms from turning into mini-greenhouses and keeps indoor temperatures more stable.

Take lukewarm showers

Cool your body down by taking a short shower in tepid water.

Avoid generating extra heat indoors

Try to avoid activities that produce extra heat, such as using the oven or washing machine.

Big appliances can pump extra heat into your home. 

So if you want some food, try to cook early in the day or stick to no-cook meals like salads.

And delay laundry or dishwasher cycles until the cooler evening hours to keep your space more comfortable.