Three tips for keeping your home cool

Easy fixes: Keep out the sun by shutting curtains and blinds. Open doors and windows in different rooms to move air through your home. Fit security latches to leave windows open while you’re out.

Create shade: Plant deciduous trees to shade your house in summer. They’ll let sun through when they lose their leaves in winter. Install external window shades — such as blinds, awnings or louvres. Eaves or roof overhangs above northfacing windows block summer sun.

Use fans: Tabletop, floor and ceiling fans use a lot less energy than air conditioning. If you have a heat pump, try the fanonly setting with your windows open.