When a heatwave arrives, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature can become a real challenge. In areas such as Torrevieja and the Costa Blanca, where high temperatures are often combined with considerable humidity, heat can quickly build up indoors.
Air conditioning is one of the most effective ways to combat high temperatures, but there are also other measures that can help prevent heat from entering your home and improve comfort without dramatically increasing energy consumption.
Keep the Heat Out During the Hottest Hours
One of the simplest measures is to close blinds, curtains or awnings during the hours of strongest sunlight. Windows exposed to direct sunlight can significantly increase the indoor temperature, especially if the property has old glazing or poor insulation.
In rooms facing south or west, it is advisable to keep the blinds lowered from mid-morning until late afternoon. Exterior awnings are particularly effective because they block the sun before it reaches the glass.
Ventilate Your Home at the Right Time
Opening the windows during the hottest part of the day can have the opposite effect, allowing warm outdoor air to enter your home.
The best time to ventilate is early in the morning and at night, when the outdoor temperature is lower. Whenever possible, open windows on opposite sides of the property to create cross-ventilation and help circulate cooler air.
Once the outdoor temperature starts to rise, close the windows again to retain the cooler air inside.
Use Your Air Conditioning Efficiently
During a heatwave, setting the air conditioning to an extremely low temperature will not cool the property more quickly. However, it can increase electricity consumption, put additional strain on the unit and create an uncomfortable indoor environment.
A temperature of approximately 24 to 26°C usually provides a comfortable atmosphere during the summer. It is also important to keep doors and windows closed while the system is running to prevent cool air from escaping.
If your home has several rooms, consider cooling only the areas that are currently being used.
Use the Dehumidification Mode
In Torrevieja, high humidity can make the temperature feel much hotter than it actually is. Many air conditioning systems include a dehumidification or “Dry” mode, which is designed to reduce excess moisture in the air.
This function can be particularly useful on very humid days, as it improves thermal comfort without the need to lower the temperature too much. Its effectiveness will depend on the model of the system and the conditions inside the property.
Keep the Air Conditioning Filters Clean
Air conditioning filters collect dust, dirt and particles over time. When they become blocked, airflow is reduced and the system has to work harder to reach the selected temperature.
Cleaning the filters regularly helps improve performance, reduce energy consumption and maintain better indoor air quality.
In addition to routine cleaning, it is advisable to arrange professional maintenance to check the general condition of the unit, the drainage system, the connections and the overall performance.
Reduce Indoor Sources of Heat
Some household appliances generate a considerable amount of heat. During the hottest hours of the day, try to limit the use of the oven, tumble dryer and hob for extended periods.
It is also a good idea to switch off lights and electronic devices that are not being used. Although each one may produce only a small amount of heat, several devices operating at the same time can noticeably increase the temperature inside a room.
Whenever possible, prepare cold meals or use appliances that generate less heat.
Use Fans as Additional Support
Fans do not reduce the actual temperature of the air, but they create airflow and can improve the way the temperature feels.
Using fans together with air conditioning can help distribute cool air more evenly and maintain a comfortable environment without having to lower the thermostat excessively.
Ceiling fans are especially useful in living rooms and bedrooms, provided they are set to rotate in the correct direction for summer.
Improve the Insulation of Your Home
If heat enters your home easily or your air conditioning takes too long to cool the rooms, poor insulation may be part of the problem.
Double-glazed windows, door seals, well-maintained shutters and suitable window frames can help prevent hot air from entering and stop cooled air from escaping.
A well-insulated home maintains a more stable temperature and allows the air conditioning system to operate more efficiently.
Check Whether Your Air Conditioning Has Enough Power
A system that is too small for the area it needs to cool may run for many hours without reaching a comfortable temperature.
The correct capacity also depends on the orientation of the property, the number of windows, the ceiling height and the quality of the insulation.
If your air conditioning is not cooling properly, switches off frequently, makes unusual noises or consumes more electricity than usual, it is advisable to request a professional inspection.
Prepare Your Home Before the Next Heatwave
The best way to deal with extreme temperatures is to prepare in advance. Checking your air conditioning before the summer allows potential faults to be detected, the system to be cleaned and its performance to be tested before the hottest days arrive.
At AC Torrevieja, we provide air conditioning installation, maintenance and repair services in Torrevieja and the surrounding areas. We can help you improve the comfort of your home and use your climate control system more efficiently throughout the summer.
Do not wait for your air conditioning to break down in the middle of a heatwave. A timely inspection can prevent problems, reduce energy consumption and help you enjoy a much cooler and more comfortable home.