Start before the room heats up
Keeping a home comfortable during a heatwave is easier when sunlight and hot outdoor air are blocked before they warm the room.
During the night and early morning, open windows and shutters when the air outside is cooler. Where it is safe to do so, opening windows on opposite sides of the home can help fresh air move through the rooms.
Close the windows again once the outside temperature begins rising.
Block direct sunlight
Curtains, shutters, blinds, awnings and other window coverings should be closed before strong sunlight reaches the glass, particularly on the side of the home facing the sun.
Waiting until the room already feels hot makes it harder to cool down later.
Malta’s health guidance recommends keeping indoor temperatures below approximately 32°C during the day and 24°C at night, particularly in homes occupied by infants, older adults or people with chronic health conditions.
Reduce heat produced inside
Ovens, hobs, bright lighting and electrical equipment all add warmth to the home.
Prepare salads, sandwiches, fruit or other meals that require little cooking during the hottest days. Switch off lights and appliances that are not needed, but never disconnect a fridge or freezer as part of an energy-saving attempt.
Cool showers, foot baths and cold packs wrapped in a towel can also help lower body temperature without cooling the entire property.
Use air conditioning strategically
Air conditioning does not necessarily need to run in every room throughout the day.
Concentrate on the room being used, close its doors and windows and make sure the unit is clean and properly serviced. This prevents cooled air from escaping and reduces unnecessary electricity use.
During extreme heat, however, avoiding air conditioning should never take priority over the health of a vulnerable person.
Do not depend on a fan alone
Electric fans may offer some relief, particularly when the indoor temperature is moderate.
Health guidance warns that when temperatures exceed 35°C, a fan may not prevent heat-related illness. Anyone experiencing dizziness, weakness, nausea or confusion should move to a genuinely cooler environment rather than simply sitting closer to the fan.
Monitor babies, older people and anyone with a health condition closely. When the home cannot be kept at a safe temperature, spend the hottest hours in an adequately cooled location.
