Struggling to stay cool at work? You’re not the only one.
With the recent heatwaves, we’ve had more than a few clients ask, “Is it safe to keep working when it’s this hot?” and “Can the temperature damage our laptops?”. If your office doesn’t have air conditioning, or it’s simply not keeping up, there are some practical ways to help both your team and your tech stay cool. Here’s how to keep things comfortable and avoid any unwanted heat-related hiccups.
Turn It Off
It sounds simple, but it’s easy to forget. If something’s not in use, turn it off. Not just your computers, but printers, monitors and other desk gear too. All of it gives off heat when powered up.
Consider using smart plugs or timers to cut power outside working hours. It’s a small change that can make a surprising difference to the temperature—and your electricity bill.
Be Strategic With Windows
Fresh air helps, but only if there’s a breeze. Opening windows on a still, hot day can just let more warm air in. Best times to let in cooler air are early morning or late evening.
If you’ve got windows on both sides of the office, create cross-ventilation by opening both and using a fan to draw air through.
Keep the Sun Out
Direct sunlight pouring into your workspace will quickly raise the room temperature. Keep curtains or blinds drawn, especially during the hottest part of the day (typically 11am to 3pm). Reflective window film is another option if you’re looking for a longer-term fix.
Move Downstairs
Heat rises. So if you’re working in a two-storey office, try setting up downstairs where it’s naturally cooler. If you’ve got a loft or attic space, opening the hatch can also help release some of the trapped heat from the upper floors.
Cooling Tips That Work
There are lots of small hacks that can make your workspace feel more bearable in hot weather:
- Use fans to keep air moving. Even a desk fan pointed in the right direction can help.
- Keep a cold drink to hand. Hydration makes a big difference to how your body handles heat.
- Soak your feet in cool water. It might sound odd, but cooling your feet helps your body regulate heat more efficiently.
- Dress for the heat. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are your best bet.
Protecting Your Tech
Computers and laptops don’t perform well in high temperatures. Overheating can cause slowdowns, crashes and long-term damage.
Here’s how to keep your devices safe:
- Keep laptops off soft surfaces like laps or cushions, which block airflow. Use a stand to let air circulate.
- Point a fan at your laptop or use a cooling pad if the room is particularly warm.
- Keep desktops and other kit out of direct sunlight, and don’t store them in enclosed cabinets.
- Clean vents and fans regularly to remove dust that restricts cooling.
- Tweak power settings to reduce load on the CPU, especially when you’re not running intensive tasks.
If your office runs multiple machines, even a modest temperature rise across the board can make a big difference. Monitoring performance and heat levels during hot weather is key.
Nxt Steps
Not every office has the luxury of built-in air conditioning, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. A few smart changes can help your people stay comfortable and your tech stay protected.
If you’re unsure whether your current IT setup can handle the heat, we can help. From hardware audits and ventilation advice to proactive support and system monitoring, Nxt Gen IT makes sure your systems run smoothly, whatever the weather.
Ready to keep your cool? Let’s chat about how we can support you this summer and beyond.
Ben helps growing businesses turn technology into a driver of performance instead of a barrier. At Nxt Gen IT he works with SME leaders, recruiters, and fast-scaling teams to design solutions that improve reliability, strengthen security, and unlock growth.
With a background in email deliverability and cloud systems, Ben specialises in making sure businesses communicate effectively, keep data safe, and get the most from Microsoft 365. His experience spans solution design, managed IT services, and virtual CIO support, always with a focus on practical outcomes that reduce headaches for business owners.
Ben has supported organisations across the UK, from recruitment agencies struggling with inbox placement to SaaS firms scaling fast, and SMEs needing a trusted partner for their IT. He believes tech is never the end goal: growth is. His role is to make sure technology never gets in the way of it.