How can I cool down my apartment during a heatwave?

‘The Finnish summer only lasts for a moment…’ sings Olli Halonen in his summer hit. And in that moment, we can experience all kinds of weather—such is life in Finland. It’s always a bit of a mystery what kind of weather awaits us. One day might bring a gentle warmth that calls for wool socks, while the next could surprise us with an oppressive heatwave.

Heatwaves can significantly reduce indoor comfort, especially if the apartment has large west-facing windows that are exposed to the afternoon and evening sun. This can raise indoor temperatures to uncomfortable levels, making the space feel stifling. Excessive heat can make everyday life and household chores more difficult.

So why don’t houses have cooling systems? There are a few reasons:

• Ventilation systems: Most apartment buildings are equipped with central heating systems designed to warm the building during winter. These systems often lack a cooling function.
• Building age and structure: Older buildings may not be suitable for installing cooling systems without major structural changes.
• Cost: Installing a cooling system in an existing building can be expensive, and the costs may be too high for the housing company and residents.

In this blog post, we’ll share small but effective tips to help you cool your home during hot summer days:

• Close curtains and blinds on windows that get direct sunlight. This helps block the sun’s heat from entering your home.
• Avoid using the oven or sauna, as they generate a lot of heat and can significantly raise indoor temperatures. When cooking, opt for the microwave, which doesn’t heat up the whole kitchen, or grill outdoors if you have access to one. (Check out our grilling tips!)
• Dry laundry outside to prevent excess moisture from building up indoors. Humidity can make the air feel even more uncomfortable on hot days.
• Do you own a fan? Place it near a window and point it outward. This way, the fan helps push warm air out. You can boost the cooling effect by placing a bowl of cold water or ice in front of the fan.
• Thinking about installing an air source heat pump? If you’re considering a heat pump or other cooling device, be sure to check the guidelines and any necessary permissions on the resident portal: https://oma.yhkodit.fi/fi/
• Cooling is also important for pets’ well-being. Make sure your pet always has access to fresh water. Pet stores also sell cooling mats that help your furry family members stay cool.