Overheating Health Risks

Many homes across the UK struggle with overheating in the summer. Here’s some of the risks associated and quick fixes you can do to help cope with the rise in temperature.

2 mins read

Intro to Overheating

Overheating in homes in the UK is more common year-on-year. As our summers become hotter more consistently, the UK housing stock struggles to cope. Historically, UK homes have not been built to cope with extreme heat and occupants can suffer as a consequence. Healthy room temperatures generally range from 18-22°C, and when internal temperatures consistently reach 24°C and over it can become difficult to cope with, especially for those with health conditions.

What happens when your home overheats?

Consistent exposure to overheating can cause building materials to crack, warp, or lead to mould growth. The air quality can become poorer if ventilation is not adequate, leading to health risks for occupants.

What are the health risks associated with overheating?

Dehydration
Shortness of breath
Asthma
Poor sleep or fatigue
Headaches
Death*

* While the exact number of deaths solely attributed to overheating in homes each year is difficult to pinpoint precisely, estimates suggest it’s around 2,000 in England and Wales. However, this figure is part of a broader concern about heat-related deaths, which can be influenced by various factors like pre-existing health conditions, age, and the intensity and duration of heatwaves.

How to stop your home overheating

Read more on practical tips to help with overheating. You can also consider implementing home improvements such as ventilation, solar shading or window upgrades to help future-proof your home from overheating.

A women cooling down due to her home overheating

Quick fixes for overheating

Open your windows at night when the outside air is cooler than inside
Close curtains and blinds during daylight hours
Opt for light colour curtains to reflect more heat
Unplug electronics, turn off lights and cook strategically to reduce heat sources
Stay hydrated
Use fans strategically to create a cross-breeze
Consider external solar shades or reflective window films to block solar gain
Consider ventilating voids like raised floors, this can help cool buildings.