If the arrival of warmer weather has left you wondering how to keep a house cool in summer our guide is just the thing you need.

With temperatures expected to rise in the coming days and weeks, the barbecues will undoubtedly be dusted off, the paddling pools inflated and the patios hosed down — but there is a less pleasant side of summer to bear in mind along with all this fun.

Trying to get everyday tasks carried out in a swelteringly hot house can be tough while getting a good night’s sleep on hot sticky nights is nigh on impossible. Fear not though — there are plenty of easy ways to keep a house cool in summer and we’ve gathered them all up into this handy collection of top tips.

Invest in an air conditioning unit

In the hot weather, investing in an air conditioning unit may be the most effective way to keep your home cool this summer. If you’re looking for a versatile solution that provides both cooling in summer and heating in winter, consider air-to-air heat pumps. These systems can effectively regulate your indoor temperature year-round, providing you with comfort and convenience regardless of the season.

To ensure optimal performance, it’s essential to choose an appropriately sized unit for your space. Whether you have a small apartment or a larger home, selecting the right capacity will ensure that your air conditioner cools the area efficiently without wasting energy.

Additionally, look for units with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, as they indicate superior energy efficiency.

Maintain your existing air conditioning unit

If you already have an air con system in place, then servicing and maintenance is crucial to ensuring optimal performance. One of the most important steps you can take is to maintain your existing air conditioning unit to ensure optimal performance. Here are some top tips to help you keep your AC running efficiently and prevent any unwanted breakdowns while reducing energy costs.

Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filters is a fundamental maintenance task. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and consume more energy. By cleaning or replacing filters at recommended intervals, you can enhance your system’s efficiency and improve indoor air quality.

Use Curtains and Blinds Strategically

One effective way to prevent excessive heat and sunlight from entering your home is by strategically using curtains and blinds. During the day, close your curtains and blinds to block out sunlight and minimise heat gain. Opt for window coverings made of light-coloured fabrics or reflective materials, as they further reduce heat absorption, keeping your home cooler and more comfortable.

Choose Lighter Colours for Your Home’s Exterior and Interior

The colour of your home’s exterior and interior can play a significant role in heat absorption. Lighter colours reflect sunlight and heat, while darker colours tend to absorb them. Consider painting your home’s exterior and interior with lighter shades to help keep it cooler in the summer. Additionally, selecting lighter-coloured furniture, curtains, and bedding can also contribute to reducing heat absorption indoors, creating a more pleasant atmosphere.

Use Your Oven and Stove Sparingly

Using your oven and stove during hot summer days can add extra heat to your home, making it more challenging to keep cool. Instead, opt for no-cook meals or utilise small appliances such as toaster ovens or microwaves, which generate significantly less heat.

Cooking outside on a grill or enjoying a picnic can be enjoyable alternatives that not only keep your home cooler but also add a touch of summer fun to your routine.

Keep Your Windows Closed During the Day

When temperatures soar, it’s crucial to keep your windows closed during the hottest parts of the day. By doing so, you prevent hot air from entering your home, allowing your air conditioning or cooling equipment to maintain a regular and comfortable temperature inside. 

Contact Aquila for Your Air Conditioning

When it comes to maintaining a cool and comfortable home, a reliable air conditioning system is essential. Aquila specialises in providing top-quality air-to-air systems designed to keep your home cool even in the hottest of temperatures. Contact us to get a quote and discover how they can help you beat the summer heat.

As temperatures begin to soar and heat waves become increasingly common, air conditioning is rapidly gaining popularity across the UK. With a surge in installations, more and more homes and offices are recognising the countless benefits that air conditioning systems bring. From creating a comfortable living and working environment to improving productivity and enhancing overall well-being, the advantages of air con are undeniable. 

In this blog, we will delve into the range of pros that air conditioning offers, exploring how it can transform your space into a cool oasis of comfort, efficiency, and enjoyment. Join us as we uncover the refreshing advantages of embracing air con in your home or office.

Improved indoor air quality

Air conditioning systems do more than just provide cool air; they also play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of the air we breathe. As these systems circulate air throughout an area, they effectively filter out dust, allergens, and various pollutants, thereby significantly improving indoor air quality. 

By capturing and trapping these airborne particles, air conditioning helps reduce the risk of respiratory issues, particularly for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.

To maintain optimal air quality, it is essential to regularly clean or change the filters in air conditioning units. Filters can accumulate dust and debris over time, hindering their effectiveness in capturing pollutants.

Increased comfort and productivity

Air con plays an important role in creating a comfortable and conducive environment for work, sleep, and relaxation. By regulating the temperature and humidity levels, air conditioning ensures that individuals are at their most comfortable, allowing them to stay focused and productive. 

Whether in a home or office setting, the ability to maintain a pleasant and controlled indoor climate through air conditioning significantly contributes to increased comfort and improved productivity.

Protection of furniture and electronics

An investment in an air con unit can also serve as a safeguard for valuable possessions, furniture, and electronic devices. Excessive heat and humidity can wreak havoc on these items, causing irreversible damage. By maintaining a controlled and cool environment, air conditioning systems protect against the adverse effects of high temperatures and humidity. 

This is particularly crucial for businesses that house expensive equipment, collectables, or sensitive electronics, ensuring their longevity and preserving their functionality. With air conditioning, you can rest easy, knowing that your valuable assets are shielded from the harmful effects of unfavourable environmental conditions. 

Better sleep quality

High-quality sleep is essential for overall well-being, and air conditioning can significantly contribute to your sleeping standards. By creating a cooler and more controlled environment, air con helps regulate temperatures conducive to sleep. Sleep experts recommend keeping the bedroom within the range of 16 to 21 degrees Celsius for optimal sleep conditions. 

A source of heat in the winter

Air conditioning systems, specifically air source heat pumps, offer a dual benefit by serving as a source of heat during the colder winter months. These modern air conditioners are designed to generate heat, functioning as efficient and low-carbon alternatives to traditional heating systems. 

Embracing air conditioning with heat pump functionality provides year-round comfort and energy-efficient heating capabilities, ensuring a sustainable and cosy environment for all seasons.

Fewer insects and parasites

Air conditioning plays a significant role in keeping insects and parasites at bay by effectively sealing off spaces when windows and doors remain closed. By creating a controlled indoor environment, air con acts as a barrier against unwanted pests. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or phobias related to certain insects or pests. 

With air conditioning, you can enjoy a pest-free zone, ensuring a more comfortable and worry-free living or working space, while promoting a sense of tranquillity and well-being.

Reduced noise pollution

Air conditioning systems have undergone remarkable advancements, now equipped with noise-reducing technology and quieter compressors. This means you can relish the benefits of air conditioning without the nuisance of excessive noise. 

Moreover, by keeping windows and doors closed, air conditioning units act as a shield against external noise sources like traffic or noisy neighbours, creating a tranquil indoor environment. With air conditioning, you can enjoy a quieter, more peaceful space, free from the disturbances of noise pollution.

Enhanced security and privacy

Air conditioning systems offer more than just temperature control. One significant advantage is the ability to keep windows and doors closed, providing increased security and privacy for homes and offices. By relying on air conditioning, you can stay cool during hot summer nights without compromising the safety of your space. Keeping windows closed minimises the risk of unauthorised access, offering peace of mind and an added layer of security.

Additionally, closed windows and doors also contribute to maintaining privacy, shielding your living or working environment from prying eyes. With air conditioning, you can enjoy a cool and secure space while preserving your privacy and peace of mind.

Reduced risk of dehydration

Air conditioning plays a vital role in preventing heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration. By keeping the body cool, air conditioning reduces the risk of excessive fluid loss through sweating, helping to maintain proper hydration levels. 

This benefit is particularly crucial for vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children, and individuals with certain medical conditions that make them more susceptible to the effects of heat. With air conditioning, you can create a safe and comfortable environment that mitigates the risk of dehydration, ensuring the well-being and health of yourself and those around you. Stay cool, and stay hydrated with the refreshing benefits of air conditioning.

Beat the summer heatwave with air conditioning 

Are you in search of an air-to-air heating and cooling system? If you’re aiming for a more energy-efficient setup, we’ve got you covered. Our team is here to help you, offering flexible pricing options and financing plans to suit your needs. Reach out to us today for a free quote.

Air conditioning units are commonplace at work – but what about the home? Estimates suggest that less than 5% of homes in England have air con installed. But with UK temperatures predicted to make 2023 one of the Earth’s hottest years on record, you might be thinking about investing in air con for the first time.

From single and multiple split systems to portable units and ducted systems: we guide you through how air conditioning works, the different types of air conditioning systems, and the benefits of installing air con at home.

The different types of air conditioning systems

Did you know that not all air conditioning units are the same? The various air conditioning unit types fall into four broad categories. Let’s look at each one in turn:

Portable air conditioners
As its name suggests, a portable air conditioning unit is a form of AC that is easy to move around. They are fully self contained, usually with wheels, to allow you to ‘spot cool’ areas that need it. Due to their compact size, portable air conditioners are ideal for use in smaller rooms – all you need is a socket. They work in the same way as other types of AC unit, but condense all the mechanics into a smaller space. The newest models extract water using an exhaust vent, or less commonly, via a hose. If your AC unit has a bucket to collect the water, then consider yours a vintage model!

Single split unit air conditioners
A split unit air conditioner can be used in home and commercial properties, such as offices, factories and shops. They consist of an outdoor unit (the condenser) and an indoor unit (the evaporator). The two units are ‘split’ between the indoor and outdoor parts of a building and joined by a drain line, refrigerant and electrics, which are fitted into the wall. One of the main advantages of a split unit is that the compressor – often the noisiest part – is located away from the area to be cooled, keeping the home or commercial property as quiet as possible.

Multi-split air conditioners
A multi-split installation is the type most suited for large industrial installations. The main difference between a single split and a multiple split unit is that you can power more than one indoor evaporator from a single outdoor unit. Typical installations feature as many as 11 separate wall mounted units which make this solution ideal if you have lots of different rooms with different AC needs. The ability to cool rooms independently of each other is also more energy efficient than using lots of separate installations.

Central air conditioning
Also known as ‘ducted’ air conditioning, a central air conditioning system involves one central unit (often situated in the basement or loft) and a fan system, which blows air into different rooms around the house. They’re most commonly used across the pond, although some UK houses and commercial buildings also opt for this type of system. A central air conditioning system can provide hot air, as well as cold air, making them a versatile form of temperature control.

The different components of an air conditioning system

Regardless of the time of air conditioning system, they all have some elements in common:

Refrigerant
Found in a gas or liquid form, refrigerant works alongside every other part of the AC system to remove heat from the room around it. It sits inside the system’s coils, travelling smoothly to all the parts of the system, going from a gas to a liquid to soak up heat.

Filters
The filter comprises a mesh grid that keeps out anything that could stop the flow of air. It removes contaminants such as dust, grease, pollen, pet hair and even smoke particles. Filters play an important role in ensuring that the unit operates as efficiently as possible.

Ducts
Ducts in an air conditioner distribute the cooled air around your home. There are different types of air ducts, from large metal ducts to more flexible steel wire spirals that allow you to get cooled (or warm) air where you want it to go.

Compressor
The compressor turns the refrigerant from a liquid to a gas, pumping it through to the condenser coil where it is then cooled. It’s at the heart of your AC system and is one of the most expensive components.

Condenser coil
This works to cool down the gas that leaves the compressor. Its purpose is to remove heat from the refrigerant and transport it to the evaporator coil.

Evaporator coil
The aim of the evaporator coil is to soak up as much heat from the air as possible. The coil is made from materials such as steel, aluminium or copper, all of which are good heat conductors.

Expansion valve
The expansion valve in an air conditioning system works alongside the compressor and condenser to keep a constant and even cycle of gas and liquid flowing through.

Fan
Situated at the back of the outdoor unit, the fan is easy to spot. Its job is to remove heat from the condenser coil.

What are the advantages of air conditioning?

Improved air quality
We all know that cooler air makes us feel more awake, but did you know that it keeps the air clean, too? An air conditioning system filters out nasty dust and dirt particles, as well as bringing in air from outside. Basically, air is constantly being ‘laundered’ to keep it clean and fresh. This can help reduce pollution, bad smells and the likelihood of allergens getting in, which can all cause attacks in asthma sufferers and those with respiratory problems.

More comfortable home
An air conditioning unit can create a comfortable environment not only for days when it’s hot, but when it’s cooler, too. An air-to-air cooling & heat pump is capable of both heating and cooling; plus a split system can help you manage different temperatures in different parts of the house or office.

A better night’s sleep
Last year’s temperatures weren’t just unbearable in the daytime. In July 2022, many of us were forced to get used to sleeping in temperatures of over 20°C, while those in Oxfordshire suffered a record 26.8C (80F) during the early hours of the morning of July 19th 2022. Bad sleep creates tired families, reduces focus and concentration at work and increases stress. For all these reasons, an air conditioning system to create a cooler and more comfortable nighttime temperature is a very smart move.

Controls humidity (important in the heatwaves)
As well as cooling things down, air conditioning systems can reduce humidity – that horrid ‘wet air’ feeling that causes us all to feel hot and sweaty when we’re trying to work or sleep. As such, the right air conditioning system acts like a dehumidifier, without you needing to purchase a separate unit.

How energy efficient is air conditioning?

When it comes to choosing the right air conditioning system, there are two things to consider:

• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): the SEER rating measures the efficiency of the AV unit on a seasonal basis. The higher the number, the more efficient (and cost effective) the air conditioning system.
• EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings: this is a measure of how well the unit cools things down compared to the power it uses. It’s most often used to review the efficiency of split system air conditioning systems and portable air conditioning units.

How can I improve the efficiency of my air conditioning system?

Regardless of the type of system you use, there are key factors that will increase the efficiency overall. These include:

Proper maintenance: there are some easy things that home and commercial owners can do to keep things running efficiently, such as cleaning filters and keeping the fan free of dust or anything else that restricts the airflow. For everything else, it’s best to book a professional service by a professional, who will check for electrical connections, and review any leaks from the refrigerant.

Selecting the right size system for your home: when the mercury rises, it’s tempting to choose the biggest air conditioning unit that money can buy. However, it’s more important to calculate the size of your room and purchase a system accordingly. To do this, you’ll need to get to grips with BTUs – these are a rating system that indicate the power output. As a rule of thumb, small rooms require at least 7,000BTUs, medium rooms 10,000 BTUs and larger rooms and offices around 15,000BTUs or more.

Don’t sweat it in Summer 2023

Are you looking for a new air-to-air heating and cooling system? Want to upgrade to a more energy-efficient setup? We can help. With flexible costing and finance options available, there’s never been a better time to get cool air in your home. Get in touch for your free quote today.

For year round comfort that won’t break the bank…

Did you know? We now offer state of the art air-to-air heating and cooling systems that are perfect for customers looking to control the temperature in a specific area of their home. Bosch climate control units provide heating, cooling, air filtration and humidity reduction to keep you and your family comfortable all year.

A+++ gets our vote

Whether it’s a conservatory, garage conversion, or simply a living area that you spend lots of time in, we now install air-to-air pumps, manufactured by Bosch, that achieve extremely high energy efficiency levels (A++ in cooling and A+++ in heating).

The air-to-air pumps use the same technology as the increasingly popular air-to-water equivalents for a fraction of the installation costs and upheaval.

This means that they cool and heat at an energy ration of around 1:5 – for every one unit of energy that goes in, they generate five times the heating or cooling.

Even better?

Because they are so efficient, the government is incentivising the installation of these heat pumps by offering 0% VAT on the supply and installation of them.

Air conditioning units are increasing in popularity, as temperatures continue to rise at the hands of global warming. In 2022 many places in the UK saw the mercury top 40°C. Which means a luxury that people traditionally only experience in their cars, offices or on holiday are now becoming a mainstay in the home, particularly in bedrooms as relief from weeks of muggy, sleepless nights.

Reclaiming your conservatory

Traditionally, conservatories have got a reputation for being a tricky space to keep a regular temperature, with the sun blazing through the glass in the summer and the cold chill from the glazing in the winter. Air-to-air heat pumps could be the perfect way to stay comfortable and enjoy the indoor/outdoor space a conservatory provides freeing up more space in the main home.

Work(out) in comfort

More of us now work from home, at least part of the week, and the pandemic saw an insurmountable rise of garage conversions and outdoor offices and home gyms. The Bosch climate control systems are great for enabling you to heat just one space during the winter while you work, or if you’re pumping iron, stay cool even in the height of summer.

Cheaper than you think

The bit that surprises everyone? With a guide price of £1500 per room, complete with supply and fitting, (and a five-year guarantee), year-round comfort and room usability needn’t cost the earth. We also offer a buy now, pay later initiative, to help get you started. With 0% interest finance options available, or for a little more, spread the cost over a longer period, you could be set up for year round comfort in no time.

Flexible finance options

Our finance packages are available for all private / residential and commercial customers wanting to install a new system. Our finance initiative enables customers to pay back the cost of the new installation over multiple monthly repayments as opposed to forking out a large, upfront lump sum. For example, you can spread your payment plan over 6 to 120 months depending on which option suits you personally. We have some great rates available, some of which are as low as 9.9% APR up to 10 years, 12 Months Buy now pay later or 0% APR up to 2 years*. Why not enquire today to find out what finance package would suit you.

What’s more, if you choose to purchase a climate control system with us, you’ll know you’ll have true experts installing your unit, providing aftercare and support as standard.

With low running costs and an efficiency rating that is kind to the planet, these systems could be the perfect solution for a space, or multiple spaces in your home, giving your boiler and your gas bill a reprieve whilst keeping you comfy.

If you want to find out more, talk to our team for advice and a no obligation quote.

*50% Deposit Required to a maximum job value of £3000

Are you spending more money than you should on your heating bills? 

The immediate answer is, of course, ‘yes’. The cost of living crisis has all of us spending way more than we should on heating our homes, which is why it’s so important to be aware of the cost-cutting measures we CAN control. 

If you haven’t heard of thermostatic radiator valves, it’s a good time to get familiar. 

Thermostatic radiator valves, or TRVs for short, allow you to have more control over your home’s temperature while also saving up to 18% on energy costs. TRVs automatically adjust how much heat is released into a room from the radiator by sensing the temperature of the environment.

Thousands of households in the UK already have TRVs installed, but are failing to actually use them properly. It’s never been more important to knuckle down on where we’re spending unnecessary money, so don’t waste any on heating your home this winter. 

Aquila’s Managing Director, Jon Matthews, has said: “There’s been times our engineers have gone into large properties where people have spent £600 having all these valves installed, and we’ve gone back the following year and they’ve set all the valves to 5. 

“There’s a misconception that the higher you turn the valves, the quicker the room will heat up,” he continued.  

“But that’s not the case – it’s a thermostat, so it will keep that radiator open and banging out heat until it reaches the set desired temperature. Having them all on 5 means you may as well not have them installed at all because they’ll never turn off.”

In short, thermostatic radiator valves are individual dials, usually numbered 0 – 6, which can be manually twisted and are fitted to all the separate radiators in a property. The valve adjusts the flow of water from the boiler to the radiator and therefore controls the air temperature of each individual room in the home. This allows residents to avoid wasting money heating less-used spaces such as hallways, or in kitchens which are often organically heated by cooking appliances.

Need a little help in setting your valves up properly? Aquila have put together a guide to make sure you’re getting the most out of your TRVs:

TRV set-up guide 

As we all feel the cold or heat slightly differently, setting up your TRVs can be a bit of trial and error. 

Below is a guide to walk you through the initial set-up, but you may find that you need to tweak things a little after a trial period.

A recap of how TRVs work

When central heating is turned on in homes or businesses without TRVs, they will be heating the entire property all of the time; wasting energy, creating higher fuel bills and potentially causing discomfort to the occupants due to overheating.
TRVs should always be used in conjunction with a heating timer and master thermostat to ensure the boiler is turned off when heating is not required or when the whole property has achieved its desired temperature.

Most of us generally only occupy 2 or 3 rooms in our homes – for example the kitchen, living room and bedroom – and tend to prefer different temperatures in these individual rooms.
For instance, most people prefer to have the living room hotter than their bedroom. Other rooms, such as spare bedrooms, dining rooms and spare reception rooms, can have the temperatures reduced when not being used, which ultimately saves energy and money. While these assumptions are a general rule of thumb, you will need to tailor any proposed settings to your own personal needs and property.

Recommended TRV settings 

Danfoss, one of the largest manufacturers of TRVs and other heating controls, recommends the following settings as a general rule, however it’s worth just checking the instructions for your own brand of TRVs for more accurate setting information as they do vary:

• 0 – OFF
  
• * – 8°C Frost Protection
  
• I – 12°C Cool / Frost Protection (unused rooms)
  
• II – 16°C Bedrooms
  
• III – 20°C Living Room / Kitchen
  
• IIII – 24°C Bathrooms
  
• IIIII – ON, No Temperature Control 

Once you have set up each room and adjusted the valves to suit your own individual preferences, try not to adjust them any further until the summer when you can turn them off. It may be worth keeping TRVs on in bathrooms throughout the summer to reduce the risk of dampness in the rooms and keep towels dry. 

Remember: Turning a valve from III to IIIII will not make the room heat up quicker and will normally cause the room to overheat and waste energy. Take a look at Danfoss’ video on TRVs to learn more.

Earlier this month, new regulations for carbon monoxide detectors came into effect, and we are offering to install a free carbon monoxide detector in every rental property visited by our engineers between now and the new year, in an effort to ensure every home is compliant with the new rules.

The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 is an update to 2015 regulations that states that all relevant landlords must ensure at least one smoke alarm is equipped on each story of their homes, and a carbon monoxide alarm is equipped in any room used as living accommodation where there is a fixed combustion appliance, such as gas heaters and boilers. Landlords who fail to comply could be fined up to £5,000.

Landlords are also now required by law to repair or replace any alarm which is found to be faulty. The law applies to private rentals and registered providers of social housing, in a bid to create parity for all tenants in the UK.

These amended regulations have been added to the pre-existing requirement to ensure that a smoke alarm is fitted on every storey of a rental property where there is a room used as living accommodation.

“Silent killer”

Understandably, landlords are seeking ways to be more cost-efficient in light of the impending recession. However, when it comes to gas safety, it’s important not to cut corners. The reputation of carbon monoxide as a ‘silent killer’ sadly, isn’t just hype: in 2020 alone, 41 people died from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, and many more fell ill.*

What we’re noticing is a “bare minimum” culture when it comes to the safety and maintenance of rental properties, which could pose major health risks for tenants. For example, we’ve witnessed engineers write a gas safety certificate without even leaving their van. That certificate is simply a snapshot of the boiler’s current state – it doesn’t represent its efficiency, or its likelihood of needing repairs. Given the stakes for tenants being so high, this is a shocking example of how dismissive landlords can be. We are hopeful that this new legislation will go some way to improving that.

Real solutions

Moreover, we recognise that we as a business have a part to play in helping our local community. As a result, we have implemented a price freeze on all boilers and services this winter, which we hope will go some way to helping households and landlords combat the rising cost of living. This, plus the new alarms, should go some way to keeping people safe and warm this winter.

A culture of care

We continue to champion the highest standards when it comes to gas safety, but fear others don’t share this approach. We have worked across a range of schemes historically including Eco Affordable Warmth Scheme to support homeowners, landlords and tenants but have continued to encounter a recurring theme of cost-cutting over delivering quality. The free carbon monoxide alarm scheme, we hope, will encourage landlords and tenants to take gas safety seriously, in line with the new legislation.

Our offer to landlords

We will supply and fit carbon monoxide alarms, however landlords installing the alarms themselves should follow the individual manufacturer’s instructions. In general, carbon monoxide alarms should be positioned at head height, approximately 1-3 meters away from a potential source of carbon monoxide, ideally on a shelf or cabinet.

The regulations do not stipulate the type of alarms (such as mains powered (‘hard wired’) or battery powered) that should be installed, or where the alarms should be placed.

Landlords should choose the type of carbon monoxide alarms based on the needs of their building and their tenants, and that those alarms are compliant with British Standards BS 50291. Where battery-powered alarms are selected, alarms with ‘sealed for life’ batteries rather than alarms with replaceable batteries, are the better option.

Are you a landlord that needs help to meet the new carbon monoxide alarm regulations? Get in touch with the Aquila team and we’ll book you in for your free fitting.

_{Office of National Statistics 2020*}

Hot, sticky, muggy, close, moist, sweaty – all the things we get to enjoy during British summertime. The epic heatwaves continue and are only going to get more intense each year, so it’s about time we got used to it right? Climate Change means us Brits are feeling the heat more than ever and we’re all looking for ways to stay cooler in the summer, dreaming of those cool air-conditioned shops and offices as we open yet another box of choc-ices. 

Tips to make your room cooler

With the cost of living at an all-time high and that glorious British sunshine getting hotter by the day it seems, we’ve collected up some top tips for how to keep your home cool if you’re not yet ready to install air conditioning. 

1.) Keep curtains and blinds closed

The ambient temperature in a room doesn’t just increase on its own – sunlight streaming in through windows can warm a room pretty quickly to uncomfortable temperatures. 

Closing your blinds and curtains can go a surprisingly long way to keeping a room cool, even in the height of summer. Blackout curtains that completely block the sun will help the most, but most curtains and blinds will make a difference. If you want a room to be cool when you get up in the morning, you should also remember to close the blinds and curtains before you go to bed – especially in rooms with east-facing windows which will catch the sun in the early hours of the morning.

2.) Windows – shut or open?

If you’re trying to cool a room you will probably want to open a window to let in a lovely, cooling breeze… but in fact, this depends on the temperature outside compared to inside your home. In the heat of the day, when the temperature outside is high, opening a window will let that warmer air in and won’t do much to keep you cool. You should keep windows shut during the hot daylight hours, but open them later in the evening to let the cooler air in. 

3.) Shut doors to rooms that are not being used

Shutting unused doors is a key part of cooling a living space or work environment – basically, a smaller volume of air in each room gives you more control over how warm or cool the air in that area is. So close the doors of any rooms you aren’t using or don’t intend to use, and you will find it easier to make a difference by following the other cooling tips.

4.) Use a fan to create a cross-breeze

Fans can be really helpful in making a room more comfortable. Although strictly speaking fans move air around rather than chilling it directly, clever use of fans can make a real difference. Create a cross-breeze by placing the fan in a naturally cooler area and angling towards a warmer part of the room or house. You can also turn a standard fan into a makeshift cooling unit by putting a bowl of ice in front of it – as the ice melts the fan will gently distribute a mist of cooling water droplets around the room. Don’t forget your kitchen or bathroom extractor fans, either – turning them on can actually help to get rid of warm, humid air and cool your home.

5.) Cut down on your use of electrical appliances

In baking hot weather you quickly realise how much heat electrical appliances can put out. Ovens, cooker hobs and kettles are obvious culprits, but other kitchen appliances such as your washing machine and dryer, as well as televisions, laptops and desktop computers can all contribute to making your rooms warmer. Try to avoid using heat-generating appliances until the cooler hours of the evening if possible. When it comes to cooking, there’s always the opportunity to eat more salads and cooling snacks… or it could be a great excuse to crack out the barbecue!

6.) Choose natural fibre bedding to keep cool

Keeping cool and comfortable isn’t just about lowering the temperature of your home. We all prefer to wear lighter, more breathable materials in the heat…  and the same should apply to your bedding! Natural cotton or linen sheets will help keep you cool and get a good night’s sleep. You might also want to invest in a specially designed cooling pillow or gel pad that you can slip inside your pillowcase. It’s also worth considering switching between a winter and summer duvet. 4.5 Tog duvets are recommended for hotter weather, so purchasing a lower tog duvet for the summer and a higher tog for the winter not only cools you down in the heat but also keeps you toasty when the weather turns.

7.) Use a dehumidifier

Temperature isn’t the only thing that can make warm weather stifling, sticky and uncomfortable. Humidity also plays a part, and we’re no stranger to a humid summer here in the UK. Using a dehumidifier will reduce the moisture levels in the air and, while it won’t directly cool a room, it can help your home feel a bit less sticky in the heat.

8.) Insulate your home

It may seem odd to talk about insulation in relation to cooling your home, but just like a thermos flask can keep drinks either hot or cold, good quality household insulation will help keep your home cool in summer as well as warm in winter. It can also be worth looking into “weatherstripping”. With a relatively small amount of expense and effort, you can seal up gaps around your windows and doors, which ultimately gives you better, more efficient control of the temperature of your home.

9.) Heat pump technology

So if you’re not quite ready to invest in Air Con, this might not be the option for you, but heat pumps provide a longer-term solution to your warming woes. Widely used in Scandinavia and parts of Europe, the heat pump is a highly energy-efficient technology compared to traditional boilers and, what’s more, many types feature reversible heat flow which means that as well as providing eco-friendly heating during the colder months, it can also be used to cool buildings in the summer. Our article on the difference between boilers and heat pumps provides more information on the pros and cons of each system.

Whilst we’re all sweating (though hopefully a little less now) in the heat, now is the best time to consider preparing your home for winter by getting your boiler serviced or spreading the cost of installing a new, more energy-efficient boiler in your home on a pay-monthly finance plan. Get in touch with the Aquila team and we’ll be happy to provide more information on preparing for the next of the extreme seasons with new offers on Combi Boiler swaps! 

Replacing a gas boiler isn’t the most exciting home upgrade you’ll ever make, but it might just be the most important.

Even if you’ve taken good care of your unit through regular servicing, the boiler won’t last forever. A registered Gas Safe engineer will be required to complete the new boiler install, not least because you need a gas safety certificate. Here’s what you can expect from the process.

How long does a boiler install take?

In today’s climate, it is almost certain that you will be looking to add a new combi gas boiler. As such, the timeframes are fairly standard, irrespective of the type of boiler you currently have. Before starting the process, you should be prepared for a survey. This can take place through a home visit or a video consultation while our engineer will provide a quote on the cost and times expected. This usually takes less than an hour.

Following this, your boiler install will include the removal of your old boiler, removal of waste for recycling as well as the installation of the new one.

At Aquila Heating, we understand that swapping/upgrading your boiler can be disruptive and you can sometimes you can be left without heating and/or hot water for several days, therefore at Aquila we always aim to have the following works carried out in 1 day.

• Replacing an old combi boiler with a new combi boiler
• Replacing an old system boiler or regular boiler with a combi boiler
• Replacing a back boiler with a combi boiler

What complexities could extend the duration?

All of the above time scales are accurate even when you want to move your boiler to a new location or if your gas pipe requires upgrading from 15mm to 22 or 28mm. If there are additional factors such as new radiators, valves or complex wiring for smart controls, we would expect a further 1/2 to a full day, but still with aim of restoring heating and hot water by the end of the 1st day of installation.

Whichever service is used, your Gas Safe registered engineer will also dispose of the old boiler in a safe manner while additionally cleaning all mess from your property. To learn more, call Aquila Heating and Plumbing on 01925 234 450 now.

You’ve probably heard of the debate between boilers and heat pumps, with boilers being the established heating systems across the UK, and heating pumps coming in as the new technology on the block. Here’s a look at the differences between boilers and heat pumps.

How does your boiler stack up against a heat pump?

Heat pumps

Benefits
The main heat pump benefit is their role as a renewable energy source, with a better carbon footprint.
Heat pumps also have a COP score of up to 3, meaning that every unit of energy you put into running one may return as much as three times that amount of energy as heat.

You can also have heat pump installation subsidised, thanks to the UK government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which offers each household up to £5,000 for eco-friendly heating installation.

Drawbacks

• Heat pumps draw heat from the environment, so they are most efficient in summer and least efficient in winter.
• Heat pumps don’t do too well in poorly insulated, older homes — which includes many of the UK’s residences.
• Heat pumps are larger and louder than boilers.
• A broad range of individuals find that heat pumps don’t heat their homes adequately, and there are few heat pump engineers out there to do repairs.

Boilers

Benefits

• Boilers are trustworthy, and will provide consistent heating all year round, no matter what the weather outside is like.
• Boiler repairs are also much easier to undertake, as huge numbers of engineers are qualified to handle boiler repair and boiler service work.
• For draughty older homes, gas boilers can be more effective at keeping things warm.
• Finally, boilers are smaller and quieter than heat pumps.

Drawbacks
Gas boilers may be less sustainable as time goes on, in light of UK government carbon targets and plans.

If you are currently comparing heat pumps and gas boilers it is worth noting the following facts:

• Boilers are significantly less energy-efficient than heat pumps, in cases where heat pumps are performing at their best.
• Air Source heat pumps (ASP) cost more than double that of a gas boiler to run as demonstrated by Oftec.
• Boiler manufacturers have created boilers that have the potential to work using future fuels. For example, the current range of highly efficient gas boilers, by Worcester Bosch’s already have the potential to run on a 20% hydrogen blend.

It is possible that a combination of heat pumps and boilers may be the best solution in the future.

If you are looking to replace your boiler, the highly skilled and knowledgeable engineers at Aquila Plumbing are always happy to help.

Does your gas and heating bill regularly make you cry each month? If so, then you might want to consider taking a few steps to correct this issue. If your gas bill has risen suddenly, it’s possible there’s a problem here that needs to be corrected.

Check Your Boiler

First, you should check your boiler to make sure that there aren’t any issues that could be causing your high bill. It’s difficult to know whether there is a problem so you should definitely contact a Gas Safe registered engineer to check this out for you. It’s possible that your boiler might require maintenance, or you could need a new boiler to get your heat levels to the right point. A new boiler will always provide a far more efficient solution.

Improve Your Insulation

Do you constantly feel draughts in your home? If so, then it’s likely that the property has a poor level of insulation. This can lead to unusually high heating bills because your heating needs more energy to keep the home at the right temperature. The right contractor will be able to improve the insulation of your home. Alternatively, you can think about making your own changes such as adding thicker curtains or draught excluders to rooms where you are losing heat.

Think About Your Water Usage

Lastly, make sure that you are thinking about how you are using your water. It’s possible that your thermostat is set at quite a high temperature for your water. Turn it down a few degrees and you’ll immediately notice a change to the bill.