Heat mitigation through window insulation and AC use

Methods for mitigating indoor heat using aluminum foil and air conditioning have been highlighted as practical responses to rising temperatures. Initial reports suggest that applying aluminum foil to the exterior of windows can act as a reflective barrier, bouncing back up to 97% of solar radiation and potentially lowering indoor temperatures by three to five degrees Celsius. Additionally, experts recommend maintaining air conditioners at 24–26°C and cleaning filters to improve efficiency and health.

As heatwaves persist, the use of aluminum foil is increasingly viewed as an emergency measure. While it serves as a thermal shield by increasing a window’s albedo, architects caution that it is a superficial, short-term solution. They warn that placing foil on the inside of the glass can be a “critical mistake” that creates a greenhouse effect, potentially worsening heat levels. For more effective long-term temperature reduction, experts emphasize the importance of external solar protections, such as shutters or panels placed outside the window.