Heatwave spikes air‑conditioning demand and prompts cooling advice in UK and US

Britain experienced its hottest June on record, with temperatures reaching 36.7 °C. The extreme heat prompted a surge in air‑conditioning enquiries, with one installer reporting a 300 % rise in domestic requests. Industry observers note a structural shift as consumers increasingly view air‑conditioning as a necessity, despite only about 4 % of English homes currently having it. The National Housing Federation warns that 90 % of UK homes could overheat by 2050, raising concerns about health impacts and energy costs.

In the United States, homeowners on Reddit discussed how to improve ventilation during heatwaves, emphasizing true cross‑breezes by opening windows on opposite sides of the house and using whole‑house or attic fans. Separate advice highlighted ways to reduce fan noise, such as placing silicone or fabric mats under fans to dampen vibration.

Additional consumer guidance cautions against common air‑conditioning mistakes that raise energy bills: setting thermostats too low, neglecting filter maintenance, and blocking vents or interior doors. Experts recommend setting thermostats around 78 °F, regularly cleaning filters, and keeping airflow pathways open to maintain efficiency.

Together, these reports illustrate how an unprecedented heatwave is reshaping both market demand for cooling equipment in the UK and everyday cooling practices among residents in the US.