Why you should be turning your fans around this weekend to survive the soaring temperatures – never point them at you
WITH temperatures soaring across the UK this weekend, many of us will be reaching for our fans for some relief from the hot weather.
However, according to some experts many of us have been using our cooling devices all wrong causing them to become less efficient and cost us more.
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Here, energy-efficiency experts Green Improve reveal a simple heatwave hack that will save people money this summer.
Electric fans may make rooms feel warmer when used incorrectly.
Rather than positioning them inwards where they circulate hot air within rooms, fans should be directed towards windows to blow hot air outside during a heatwave.
Daniel McCowan, Director of Green Improve Ltd, also says that Brits should be 'strategic' when it comes to opening windows.
'UK homes are designed to retain heat,' says Daniel.
'By opening windows during a heatwave, people trap hot air inside the home and worsen the situation.'
By strategically opening windows during cooler periods, Brits can avoid overheating and save money on their electricity bills this week.
Daniel says windows and curtains should remain closed during the hottest hours, which are usually between 10 am and 4 pm.
They can then be opened during cooler evening periods to allow heat to escape and fresh air to circulate.
If someone opens their windows and allows excess heat into the home, they're more likely to rely on expensive electric fans to cool down.
My dream pool was £40,000 so I DIYd my own 18ft version in February all for this summer heatwave - it's saved me £37,000
"Electric fans are an unnecessary expense during a heatwave,' McCowan adds.
'For example, running a 200W fan for 8 hours every night from May through August could add around £53.21 to electricity bills in the UK.'
How to keep cool in hot weather
Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. Here are three ways to keep cool according to the NHS...
Keep out of the heat if you can.
If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
Cool yourself down.
Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
Keep your living space cool.
Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.
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