Keep Your South-Facing Bedroom Cool With These Tips

Keeping a south-facing bedroom cool can be a challenge, especially during the summer months. The sun's rays can turn your room into an oven, and the heat can become unbearable, disrupting your sleep and making you uncomfortable. Luckily, there are several ways to combat this issue without breaking the bank.

Install external shutters or window film

If you're looking to cool down a south-facing bedroom, installing external shutters or window film is a great option. Here's a detailed guide to help you get started:

Install External Shutters:

External shutters are an effective way to block unwanted sunlight and heat from entering your bedroom. They act as a barrier between the outdoor heat and the window, providing excellent thermal insulation. Shutters with adjustable louvers are particularly useful as they allow you to control ventilation, light, and the amount of heat entering the room. Additionally, they offer added security and don't take up any interior space.

To install external shutters, follow these steps:

• Measure the window and purchase shutters that fit. You can choose from a variety of materials such as wood, vinyl, composite, or aluminum.
• Remove any existing shutters or blinds. If they are attached with screws, simply unscrew them from the wall. For shutters installed with fasteners, use a pair of snips or a hacksaw blade to cut the spike.
• Position the new shutter next to the window on the exterior of the house. Leave a small gap (about 1/4 inch) between the shutter and the window trim for vinyl or composite shutters to allow for expansion and contraction. For wooden shutters, a gap is not necessary.
• Use a level to ensure the shutter is plumb, and mark the mounting holes with a pencil.
• Drill the mounting holes using a drill with a multipurpose bit. The number and placement of holes will depend on the size and material of the shutter.
• Reposition the shutter and drill pilot holes into the wall using the holes in the shutter as a guide.
• Enlarge the holes in the shutter using a larger drill bit.
• Secure the shutter to the wall using shutter locks, fasteners, or screws. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for specific directions.
• Repeat the process for any additional shutters.

Install Window Film:

Window film is another option to help cool your south-facing bedroom. It is made of multiple UV-blocking layers, limiting the amount of sunlight that can enter and heat up the room. It is usually self-adhering and easy to apply. Here's how you can install window film:

• Clean the window thoroughly to ensure the film adheres properly.
• Measure the window and cut the film to size using a tape measure and scissors.
• Apply the film to the window, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• Smooth out any bubbles or creases in the film using a squeegee or a credit card.

By installing external shutters or window film, you can effectively reduce the amount of heat entering your south-facing bedroom, creating a more comfortable sleeping environment.

Use an awning or canopy

If your bedroom is on the ground floor or on a balcony, an awning can be a great way to keep the room cool. Awnings are a simple yet effective solution to blocking out the harsh sun and providing shade, which can significantly reduce heat gain. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a more accessible option for those on a tight budget.

When choosing an awning, look for one that is adjustable, weather-resistant, and made of high-quality materials such as polyester. The VOUNOT 3 x 1.2m Patio Telescopic Awning, for example, is a retractable manual awning with a hand crank that allows you to adjust the height and tilt angle. This can be particularly useful as the sun moves throughout the day, ensuring your bedroom remains shaded at all times.

Another benefit of awnings is their versatility. They can be installed without drilling, which is ideal if you are renting or are not allowed to make permanent fixtures to your home. Additionally, awnings come in various colours and styles, allowing you to choose one that complements the exterior of your home.

If you have a larger budget, you may also consider a brise soleil, which is a type of sunshade that is commonly used in architecture to provide shade and reduce heat gain. These can be a more permanent solution but may require professional installation.

It is worth noting that while awnings are excellent at blocking direct sunlight, they may not be as effective as other solutions such as window films or shutters in reducing heat gain caused by indirect sunlight or radiant heat. However, when coupled with other strategies such as keeping windows closed during the day and using fans or air conditioning, an awning can be a valuable part of your overall strategy to cool a south-facing bedroom.

By installing an awning or canopy, you can effectively create a barrier between the sun and your bedroom, providing shade and reducing the amount of heat that enters the room. This simple solution can make a significant difference in maintaining a comfortable temperature in your south-facing bedroom.

Paint walls a light colour

Painting the walls of a south-facing bedroom a light colour is a simple and cost-effective way to help keep the room cool. Lighter colours reflect more sunlight, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the walls and preventing the room from overheating. This is especially effective if the walls are clean, as dirt can reduce the reflectivity of the paint.

When choosing a paint colour, opt for light neutrals such as white, beige, or light grey. These colours will reflect the most sunlight and help to brighten the room. You can also opt for light pastel shades such as pale yellow, mint green, or light blue for a more colourful option that still reflects sunlight effectively.

In addition to painting the walls, you can maximise the cooling effect by choosing light-coloured furniture, bedding, and accessories. This will further increase the amount of sunlight reflected in the room, keeping it cool and comfortable during hot weather.

If you're looking for more ways to keep your south-facing bedroom cool, consider investing in window treatments such as external shutters, awnings, or solar-reflective window film. These options will help block the sun's rays before they enter the room, reducing heat absorption and keeping the temperature down.

Open windows at night, close during the day

Keeping windows open at night and closed during the day is a good strategy to cool a south-facing bedroom. This method takes advantage of the lower temperatures at night to cool the room and prevents hot outdoor air from entering during the day. Here are some detailed instructions to implement this strategy effectively:

Open Windows at Night:

• Identify the time when overnight temperatures are at their lowest, which is usually just after sunrise. This is the ideal time to open the windows and allow cool air to enter the bedroom.
• Ensure that you have window fans in place to increase air circulation and enhance the cooling effect. Position the fans to blow inward, bringing in the cool night air.
• If possible, open windows in other parts of the house to create cross-ventilation and facilitate better airflow throughout the house.
• Keep the windows open for a while even after sunrise, as the outdoor temperature may still be cooler than the indoor temperature.

Close Windows During the Day:

• As the outdoor temperature starts to rise, usually a couple of hours after sunrise, it's time to close the windows. Be mindful of the timing and don't wait until it's much hotter outside than inside.
• Close the windows before the sun directly beams into the room, as this will help prevent heat gain and reduce the amount of heat entering the bedroom.
• During the day, keep the curtains or blinds closed as well to block out sunlight and further minimise heat gain. Consider using thermal curtains or blinds for added insulation.
• If you have double-glazed windows, keep them closed during the day. Double-glazing works both ways, helping to keep the cool air inside and the hot air outside.
• If the room still feels warm, consider using a fan to create airflow and provide a cooling effect. Position the fan to blow outward to expel any remaining hot air.

By following these steps, you can effectively use the natural temperature variations to cool your south-facing bedroom, creating a more comfortable sleeping environment.

Use a fan

Fans are a great way to cool down a south-facing bedroom. Here are some tips on how to use them effectively:

Positioning the Fan

Place your fan on the windowsill, aiming it outwards to pull hot air out of the room. This is especially effective if you have sash windows, as you can create a chimney effect by opening both the top and bottom sashes. If you don't have a sash window, simply opening the window will help facilitate the movement of hot air out of the room. It is important to ensure that the fan is positioned to blow air out of the room, rather than just circulating the warm air inside.

Using Multiple Fans

For optimal airflow, consider using two fans. Position one fan on the windowsill, blowing air out, and place another fan near an open window on the shady side of the house, drawing in the cooler air. This will create a cross breeze, improving ventilation and helping to lower the temperature in the room.

Timing is Key

Monitor the temperature inside and outside the bedroom. When the outdoor temperature drops below the indoor temperature, that's the time to spring into action with your fans. By setting up the fans as soon as it gets cooler outside, you can take advantage of the lower evening temperatures to bring some relief to your bedroom.

Fan Type and Safety

While tower fans are popular, they may not be the most effective for cooling a room. Instead, opt for a more powerful fan, such as a high-velocity floor fan or a pedestal fan. If you have young children, safety is a priority. Traditional fans with blades may pose a risk, so consider investing in a bladeless fan, like a Dyson, or look for mesh covers that can be added to regular fans for added protection.

Additional Tips

To enhance the cooling effect, try filling a cup or two with water and placing them in the freezer. Position one of these frozen cups in front of the fan to create a DIY air conditioner. This will help cool the air as it circulates around the room.

Using a combination of these fan techniques will help you keep your south-facing bedroom cooler during warm weather.

Frequently asked questions