British Gas says hang 1 item in front of windows this week

When temperatures rise, people often think about having barbecues in the garden or lounging outside. But most Brits face the same issues when they have to spend time inside during a heatwave – high temperatures that can feel impossible to escape from indoors.

Most homes in the UK are not built for hot weather, often retaining heat rather than letting it escape. And according to the latest Met Office forecast, some areas are expected to see temperatures rise to up to 40°C.

British Gas engineer Peter Knowles claims that there are a handful of tips that might help Brits who just aren’t getting enough relief from a fan on full blast. One might seem a little bit odd, but the specialist claims that it can work.

He said: “We all know how frustrating it is when our homes are hot and stuffy. The good news is that there are some practical steps that households can take to help keep indoor temperatures down during the summer months.

“Things like doing your washing in the evening, keeping windows closed during the middle of the day or putting your fans on the floor are all small changes that can make a real difference.” One of the more bizarre ways to keep heat away is to create your own make-shift air conditioning.

Peter said: “Hanging a damp sheet in front of an open window during evening hours will help to cool incoming air naturally. For south and west-facing windows that catch afternoon sun, you could also consider reflective window film to reduce heat and glare.