Home cooling strategies: Experts advise on heat management and energy efficiency

Various experts and specialists offer strategies for managing heat and maintaining home comfort during the summer months.

Architect Julia Ayuso recommends using external protections like ‘Alicante blinds’ to block solar radiation before it hits the glass, noting that external barriers are significantly more effective than internal ones. Similarly, architect Juan Goñilo highlights that west-facing windows are often more problematic than south-facing ones because the low angle of the afternoon sun makes it harder to block the rays.

Regarding energy efficiency, expert Álvaro Pérez suggests that lowering blinds before 10:00 AM can reduce air conditioning consumption by up to 25% by preventing thermal load accumulation. Technical advice also emphasizes the importance of proper insulation in cooling systems to prevent condensation and maintain efficiency.

Other practical tips include using natural fibers like linen and cotton for decor, managing ventilation by opening windows at dawn and closing them during peak sun hours, and using baking soda or essential oils to manage indoor odors.