Tips for Keeping Cool

This summer, the UK has experienced some of the most intense heat waves ever recorded. These extreme weather events are undeniable proof of the escalating impact of climate change. Temperatures have soared past 37°C, with areas like Coningsby in Lincolnshire reporting an unprecedented high of 40.3°C. In fact, nine out of the ten hottest days ever recorded in the UK have occurred since 1990. It's hard to dismiss climate change as anything other than the primary driver behind these temperature spikes.

At the same time, the UK is grappling with a severe cost of living crisis. As of July 2022, inflation has surged to 10.1%, the highest level in four decades. This is a far cry from the 2.6% average we saw just a year ago in 2021. Energy prices have skyrocketed, with the current price cap set at £1,971, representing a significant hike from the previous level. With another round of increases expected in the upcoming price cap review in October, many households are searching for ways to stay cool while managing their energy expenses.

One effective strategy has been avoiding fans and air conditioning units, especially for those fortunate enough to have them. Instead, people have been exploring alternative methods to keep cool. As we approach the summer bank holiday weekend, here are some practical tips to help stay comfortable without breaking the bank.

How to Stay Cool Without Breaking the Bank

To get some insights, we reached out to British residents to learn about the strategies they've been using to stay cool without relying on electricity. Here's what they shared:

37% of Manchester Residents Keep Their Curtains Closed During the Day

Direct sunlight streaming through your windows can turn your home into a greenhouse, rapidly heating up the interior. The heat absorbed by your windowpanes can radiate into your living space, making it unbearably warm. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable with single-glazed windows, though double-glazed ones aren't immune either. By keeping your curtains shut during the day, you can block out the sun's rays, keeping your home cooler and reducing the need for artificial cooling systems.

46% of Birmingham Residents Seek Shade When Outside

Brits tend to underestimate the risks of prolonged sun exposure. Even in the early stages of summer, you'll find people晒得通红。为了避免紫外线最强的上午10点至下午3点期间直接暴露在阳光下非常重要。

尽管你可能觉得英国的阳光不强，但今年的极端热浪期间紫外线水平已达到10（最高值）。这意味着你在阳光下更容易被灼伤。

21% of Cardiff Residents Use Car Air Conditioning During Commutes

避免汗流浃背地步行、骑车、乘火车或公交车出行是明智之举，尤其是在炎热天气中。五分之一的卡迪夫通勤者选择利用汽车空调来保持凉爽——这可能导致最近交通拥堵加剧。然而，这种方式对环境不利。道路上额外的车辆意味着更多的污染排放。此外，在高油价时期，额外的汽油消耗也可能影响你的财务状况。

What Are British Residents Considering Doing to Lower Their Energy Costs?

As another price cap rise looms over UK households in October, we also asked Brits what steps they plan to take to reduce their energy expenses amid rising utility bills. Here's what they said:

18% of Leeds Residents Plan to Ask for a Pay Raise From Their Employer

It's often reported that employers aren't increasing wages in line with inflation, forcing employees to allocate a larger portion of their earnings toward essentials and leaving them with less disposable income for leisure activities. Public sector strikes are becoming more common, and it shouldn't come as a surprise that these issues are spilling over into private sector businesses.

5% of Brits Are Considering Moving to Houses Already Equipped With Solar Panels

Solar panels are an excellent way to cut down on energy bills. They're also a renewable energy source, meaning the conversion process produces no pollutants, making them environmentally friendly. Thanks to the abundant sunshine this summer, solar energy production has been exceptionally high. Even on cloudy days, solar panels can generate electricity because solar rays can penetrate clouds, providing power to your home.

Interested in Installing Solar Panels in Your Home? Contact us today for more information on how solar panels can benefit you and your energy bills.