Solar shading

How to keep heat out? Tips for a cool home

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On hot days, many people ask themselves:

  • Is 27°C indoors too warm?
  • How do I get the heat out of my house?
  • How can I cool my body quickly?
  • What are the symptoms of overheating?

The reality is: when it’s hot outside, your home can quickly turn into an oven. And once the heat is inside, it’s hard to get rid of. That’s why it’s important to act in time. With these do’s and don’ts, you’ll keep the heat outside and create a refreshing indoor climate.

 

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Do’s – How to keep yourself and your home cool

1. Use sun protection on your terrace or balcony
The best way to keep heat out is to stop the sun from entering your home. Screens, awnings, or Coolscreens block sunlight before it hits the glass. This prevents your home from heating up and keeps the interior cooler.

2. Ventilate smartly: only when it’s cooler outside
Ideally, keep the indoor temperature between 20–25°C. Open windows and doors only early in the morning or late in the evening, when the outside air is cooler than inside. This way, you refresh the air without letting in extra heat.

“Sun protection is one of the most underestimated investments. It helps to keep your home cool and makes the indoor climate more comfortable”

Glenn Reynders
Dr. ir., EnergyVille/KU Leuven
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3. Wear breathable clothing
Opt for cotton or linen in light colors. This helps your body cool down more effectively.

4. Drink plenty of water
Drink small amounts regularly. Avoid coffee and alcohol, as they dehydrate you.

5. Create shade around your home
No trees or pergola? Use an awning or patio sunshade. This creates natural shade and helps keep the indoor temperature down.

“Smart ventilation is a simple and cost-effective way to cool your home. Open windows both upstairs and downstairs when it’s cooler outside—this allows fresh air to flow through and helps your home better cope with heat the next day.”

 

Hilde Breesch
Prof. Dr. Ir. of Building Physics and Sustainable Construction at KU Leuven
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Don’ts – What to avoid

1.Don’t open windows when it’s hotter outside
If it’s 28°C outside and 25°C inside, opening the windows will only bring in more heat.

2. Don’t rely on curtains as your only sun protection
Curtains only block heat after the sun has already warmed the glass. Always combine them with external sun protection.

3.Avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day
Exercise in the morning or evening to prevent overheating.

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4. Don’t take ice-cold showers
They might feel cooling, but your body will work harder afterward to warm up. A lukewarm shower or foot bath is a better option.

5. Don’t overuse the air conditioner
Air conditioning consumes a lot of energy and creates noise. Always use sun protection first, so your AC doesn’t have to work as hard.

“Curtains only block sunlight after it has already passed through the glass—by then, the heat is already inside.”

Hilde Breesch
Prof. Dr. Ir. of Building Physics and Sustainable Construction at KU Leuven
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How can I cool down my body?

  • Cool your wrists, feet, and neck with a damp cloth
  • Take a lukewarm shower.
  • Stay in the shade and rest adequately.

 

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What are the symptoms of overheating?

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Nausea
  • Muscle cramps
  • Fatigue

If you notice these symptoms, find a cool place and drink plenty of water.

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Natural cooling is sustainable cooling

With smart sun protection, you keep the heat outside and avoid issues like heat stress and overheating. Whether you choose screens, an awning, or patio shading, it helps keep both your home and your body cool.

Curious about the best solution for your situation? Contact us for advice. Find a local dealer nearby.

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