B1333 words3:00News Report British AccentPublished Aug 12, 2026 · Updated Aug 12, 2026

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As temperatures soar across the United Kingdom, some homeowners have discovered an unexpected way to cool their homes.

Heat pumps, which are usually known for heating buildings, can also work as cooling technology.

Many people have been surprised to learn that these systems can reduce indoor temperatures significantly during hot weather.

Andrew Ingram, who lives in Maidenhead with his wife Sue, has experienced this benefit firsthand.

He says that when the outdoor temperature reaches 35 degrees Celsius, he can bring his living room down to 21 degrees.

The couple installed an air source heat pump in 2023 after they removed their old gas boiler.

The company that installed the system suggested they could also use it for temperature control in certain rooms.

A heat pump works by transferring heat energy from one place to another, rather than burning fuel to generate warmth.

In winter, the system extracts heat from the outside air and sends it into the home through radiators or underfloor heating.

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In summer, the process is reversed, and heat is removed from inside the house.

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This makes heat pumps a form of renewable energy technology because they use very little electricity.

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Ingram has described the cooling feature as a revelation and an absolute lifeline during this summer's heat.

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He explained that when he and his wife feel exhausted from the hot weather, they turn the system down and then let the temperature drift back up gradually.

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When he shares his experience on social media, some people think he is using air conditioning.

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However, he always explains that it is the heat pump working in reverse.

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As climate adaptation becomes more important, heat pumps are gaining attention as a practical solution for both heating and cooling.

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The technology has been available for many years, but more people are now considering it because of rising temperatures.

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Experts believe that heat pumps could play a significant role in helping households manage temperature control throughout the year, while also reducing the use of fossil fuels.

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‘It’s been a revelation’: how heat pumps can cool your home as temperatures soar

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