How to stop your home overheating in hot weather this summer

Let cool air in. Open windows on opposite sides of your home to encourage air flow by letting warm air out and cooler air in. Best to do overnight or early morning when it's cooler outside than inside. If you have a loft, open the hatch to let heat escape.

If you can only open one window, open internal doors to help the air circulate.

Keep the sunshine out

Effective and low cost - close your curtains or blinds on the side of the house where the sun is shining. When it's warmer outside than inside (late morning to early evening), keep all windows closed.

Use a fan

Fans help circulate the air and are cheap to use - generally costing less than 2p an hour to run. If the temperature outside is cooler, put a fan by an open window to help draw in fresh air.

Placing a bowl of ice cubes or ice packs in front of - but a safe distance from - a fan can help lower the temperature of the air circulating the room.

Insulation can help

A well-insulated property can prevent unwanted heat from entering during the summer, while keeping it warm in winter. Energy efficient home improvements to consider:

● Improving wall and roof insulation

● Replacing windows - especially with 'low-emissivity' glass which has a coating that reflects UV and ultraviolet

● Good ventilation via extractor fans and trickle vents

● Installing window shutters

You may be entitled to help with paying for improvements to make your property more energy efficient. Check Citizen’s Advice website for information about the schemes and grants that are available.

Need Help? Contact Citizens Advice Watford on 0800 144 8848, visit www.cawatford.org.uk, or drop in Monday to Thursday, 9.30am–12.30pm.