Are You Making This Mistake After Coming Home in a Heatwave?

31 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Many people instinctively open windows on hot days, but opening windows in heat often makes apartments hotter. Learn better cooling habits.

Most people open windows as soon as they return home during a heatwave. However, opening windows in heat often makes apartments hotter, experts warn.

Table of Contents

Why opening windows in heat backfires

When outdoor temperatures exceed 30°C, hot air flows inside if you open windows. Consequently, walls, floors and furniture absorb that heat. Moreover, these surfaces release heat long after sunset. Therefore your flat can feel warmer at night than the street.

Simple steps to keep your home cooler

Close windows during the hottest hours. In addition, lower blinds or draw curtains on sun-facing walls. Also, ventilate early in the morning and late at night when temperatures drop. Consequently you push out warm air and bring in cooler air. Moreover, avoid creating cross-breezes that draw hot air in during midday.

Practical tips beyond window use

Turn off or unplug heat-generating devices when possible. For example, electronics on standby still emit heat. In addition, cook outdoors or use a microwave sparingly. Therefore you reduce additional indoor warming. Also, consider reflective window film or temporary shades to block direct sun.

Opening windows in heat: what experts say

Experts say the instinct to open every window feels sensible. However, the effect depends on external temperature. Consequently following the simple rules can lower indoor temperature by several degrees. Moreover, you save energy if you avoid unnecessary air conditioning.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: As an expat, remember that Poland uses local public services like NFZ for health care and ZUS for social insurance. In many cities you may register for a PESEL number to access services more easily. Also note that some local rules impose fines (mandat) for obstructing emergency exits or causing hazards. Therefore carry ID and emergency numbers, and seek help from your employer or landlord if you need urgent assistance.

Heatwaves affect urban areas first. For example, central Warsaw records higher night temperatures than suburbs. Moreover, buildings with concrete or brick retain heat longer. Therefore flats on higher floors often stay hotter into the night.

People often rely on cross-ventilation to cool rooms. However, during peak heat it usually draws in hotter air. Consequently this accelerates furniture and wall warming. Moreover, the evening chill then competes with stored heat, creating uncomfortable nights.

Small behavioural changes make a difference. For example, close sun-facing windows and ventilate at dawn. In addition, switch off non-essential appliances. Therefore you create noticeably cooler conditions without costly upgrades.

Finally, seek help when needed. If temperatures threaten health, contact local emergency services. Moreover, check with your building manager about communal cooling spaces. Therefore plan ahead during prolonged heatwaves.

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