Research suggests that 23 degrees is the perfect temperature for Brits, while 32 degrees is when the heat becomes unbearable. With temperatures predicted to surpass 30 degrees this weekend, the forthcoming days could prove challenging. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed the top 30 methods Brits use to keep cool during a heatwave, including wearing minimal clothing, consuming cold ice cream, and taking cold showers. Some unconventional techniques included freezing bed sheets or going for a swim.
Other strategies on the list included seeking shelter in air-conditioned buildings and shielding themselves from the sun using sun cream, sun hats, and sunglasses. But despite the array of cooling tactics used the research reports these only ‘sometimes’ or ‘rarely’ prove effective. In fact, the average duration before the effects completely wear off is just 12 and a half minutes.
A spokesperson for Utilita Energy, which commissioned the research as part of its Power Price List series to demonstrate exactly how much it costs to operate a fan, stated: “As temperatures hit a record high for this year of 32 degrees, we wanted to see the ways people stay cool during a heatwave.
“Techniques vary from the classic to the experimental but whatever methods you use, we can all agree that being too hot can really affect how much we enjoy the summertime.”
The study discovered that when temperatures soar to these uncomfortable levels, 55 per cent report an impact in their mood as they become more irritable and lethargic. Two thirds even suggested that being too hot is the worst aspect of summer.
Additional complaints include sleep deprivation, dehydration, and physical symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and chafing. Over a third believe they are more affected by high temperatures in the UK than abroad, while six in 10 claim UK summers are hotter, on average, than they were five years ago.
Four out of 10 prefer to be too cold rather than too hot in their own homes, so it’s not surprising that 34 per cent would love to have an air conditioner to keep their houses cool.
However, 51 per cent admit they lack knowledge about how much energy these appliances consume as energy usage is less of a concern during the summer months.
A spokesperson for Utilita Energy said: “It’s interesting to see how people think less about their energy during the warmer months and are less aware of what it costs to keep cool – which is where the Power Price List can help.
“From this, we know the cost of running an air conditioner per use is 92p and a fan is 22p – helping you to stay informed while staying cool.”