If you live in a flat or apartment in London, you have probably spent a lot of summer nights struggling to sleep due to the heat. You may be wondering why London apartments get so hot. With open windows letting in noise and pollution as well as posing a security risk, cooling down your apartment can be a challenge. The good news is that you are not alone and there are alternative solutions.
Why Do Flats & Apartments Get So Hot?
Location
Many apartments based in cities such as London are in high-rise buildings. This means that the building is consistently exposed to the sun, especially if it is south-facing. Due to the building’s size, there isn’t a way to provide shade to the upper floors. This means that your apartment is left to bake in the sun over the course of the day.
Windows
Many London apartments feature stunning large glass windows. Even though it gives you a fantastic view of the city, it also lets in a lot of direct sunlight. This will drastically increase the temperature in your apartment, as well as humidity. This lethal combination leaves your apartment hot, sticky, and uncomfortable. In addition, high-rise apartments often do not allow you to open any windows fully. This is due to safety reasons and can make it difficult to get enough air circulation in your flat or apartment.
New Building Regulations
New build apartments have far more efficient insulation than older buildings. This is great for the winter months and will save you money on energy bills, but is part of the reason why they can become so hot in the summer months.
Why Opening Windows Doesn’t Always Work
When the temperature starts to pick up, our first instinct is to open windows. There are a few drawbacks to this, especially in city-based apartments and flats.
Noise Pollution
Living in central London, close to work, shops and transport links has many benefits. However, busy streets can be an issue when it comes to opening your windows on a hot summer’s day in terms of noise levels. This is especially true if you work from home or want to get a good night’s rest.
Safety & Security
Leaving your windows open at night or even during the day can be a security risk. Particularly if you have a ground-floor apartment in an urban area. Additionally, if you have pets or small children, leaving windows open and unattended can be a safety risk, especially if you are located above the ground floor.
Air Pollution
Another issue that is important to note is air pollution. Cities such as London have higher levels of air pollution than further out in the countryside. Opening your windows will allow harmful particles to enter your home. This can be particularly harmful to those suffering from allergies or lung conditions such as asthma.
How To Cool Your London Apartment
There are lots of short-term solutions to cooling down a hot apartment. You can read more about our top tips on how to cool down your apartment or flat here. If you’re looking for an effective long-term solution, installing an air conditioning system is a worthwhile investment. It will turn that hot city apartment into a cool, comfortable, and inviting space.
Internal Air Conditioning For London Flats & Apartments
City-based apartments often have restrictions when it comes to installing a traditional AC system. This usually involves the condenser unit that is fixed to an external wall. In order to install one of these, you will require planning permission which is often not granted. Internal water-cooled air conditioning is one of the most popular solutions for London apartments.
Benefits Of Internal Air Conditioning
- Requires no planning permission
- They are suitable for London apartments and Grade II listed buildings
- The system requires no external condenser
- The condenser is compact and hidden in a concealed space
- A+++ energy rating
- Low noise & WiFi control
The main difference between traditional and water-cooled AC units is that they use water instead of air to provide cooling. They, therefore, do not require an external unit as the condenser is plumbed into your mains water supply. The condenser is easily installed and hidden in a concealed space such as a cupboard or under the kitchen sink. Our wall-mounted units are the most popular and versatile option for London apartments.
Talk To Your Local Experts
At ACS Installations, we are experts in internal air conditioning solutions for London flats and apartments. We understand that no two properties are the same and provide a bespoke installation service based on your specific requirements. Our team of friendly engineers are available for free consultations and site surveys. If you’re looking to cool down your hot London apartment, get in touch today!
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