Blog>Expert Advice>How to regulate the temperature in your conservatory
Last updated: 15 August 2024
How to regulate the temperature in your conservatory
Is your ageing conservatory too hot or too cold? Learn how to regulate the temperature in your conservatory year-round with this handy guide.
With the UK now experiencing some of the warmest summers on record (and some chilly winters, too!), knowing how to regulate the temperature in your conservatory is important.
This guide shares some quick fixes and more permanent solutions to make your conservatory feel more comfortable year-round. But first up, what's the problem with conservatory temperature control?
The problem with conservatory temperature control
Put simply, thermal efficiency is to blame for the temperature extremes in your conservatory.
This isn't a problem for modern conservatories, which maintain a more consistent temperature year-round thanks to correct insulation, vent systems, and solid roofs.
However, ageing conservatories with polycarbonate and glass roofs are a different story. They lose too much heat in the winter and retain too much heat in the summer. Not ideal for the many UK homeowners who rely on their conservatories as extra living or working spaces all year round.
Thankfully, there are some tips to make things more comfortable without breaking the bank.
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How to make my conservatory warmer
Insulation:
Several quick fixes can help to insulate your conservatory:
Add fitted blinds or heavy curtains to your conservatory windows
Layer up with cosy blankets and a large rug
Add a draft excluder beneath your patio doors
Use a sealant to cover up any gaps in your windows
Looking for a more permanent solution? If your conservatory's single or double window panes have seen better days, consider upgrading to double glazing.
Or consider insulating your existing conservatory’s internal roof. It's a bigger job, but it can make a huge difference. This could set you back around £2,000–£4,500.
This includes battens fixed to the underside of the existing roof, insulation added, and an internal roof finish applied.
Find out more about conservatory insulation.
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Electric heating:
Once you've addressed your insulation as best you can, there are various ways to crank up the heat in your conservatory:
Portable electric panels or fan heaters for smaller conservatory spaces
Wi-fi electric heaters, which you turn on and off via your phone to help maintain a more consistent heat
Electric wall-mounted radiators featuring precision thermostats and 24/7 programming for better control
Wall-mounted infrared thermo glass, which uses carbon nanofibres to heat your conservatory
Electric underfloor heating for a more cost-effective, longer-term solution
Alternative heating solutions:
If your budget allows, wiring your conservatory up to your home’s existing central heating to install radiators is a great option. However, this will require extensive plumbing and electric work.
A gas fire could also help transform your conservatory into the cosy snug of your dreams.
Roofing solutions:
If you're still struggling to retain heat in your conservatory despite investing in insulation solutions, it might be time to consider replacing your conservatory roof.
Upgrading your existing glazed conservatory roof to a tiled roof replacement will help to retain your conservatory's warmth.
However, this doesn't come cheap. On average, the price you can expect to pay for a smaller conservatory (below 4,000mm by 4,000mm) is £22,500. Replacing glass or plastic with tiles for a larger conservatory roof will cost around £10,000.
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How to keep my conservatory cool in summer
When temperatures rise, conservatories can feel like you're living in a greenhouse. Here are some quick fixes and more permanent solutions to help.
Windows and insulation:
Always keep your conservatory windows open in a heatwave
Install blinds or heavy curtains to block the sunlight
Consider adding window film to your internal roof glazing to help reflect the sun’s rays away (for a professional finish, we recommend hiring a conservatory specialist to install it)
Portable cooling:
Use portable fans or install a traditional conservatory ceiling fan
Invest in a portable AC unit (just remember, you'll need somewhere to house the vent that removes the warm air)
If your budget allows, a permanent air conditioning unit might be a better option
Roofing solutions:
If you’ve tried all of the above and your conservatory still feels like an oven, it might be time to consider replacing your polycarbonate or glass roof.
As mentioned, swapping a polycarbonate and glass roof with a more modern, permanent roof isn't cheap. But it could save you money on your household bills in the long run.
However, if your conservatory has seen better days, you might be better off starting from scratch and replacing it. Find out more about the cost of installing a new conservatory.
Find a tradesperson
Ready to contact a conservatory, doors and windows specialist to get a quote for your conservatory roof insulation or replacement? It’s easy to find the right tradesperson for the job at Checkatrade. Only trades who pass our checks and meet our high standards are on Checkatrade.
Simply enter your postcode below to get started.
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FAQs
How do you block heat from a conservatory?
The first step is to install quality blinds or heavy curtains to block sunlight. Applying window film to your glazed roof is also a worthwhile investment.
Where is most heat lost in a conservatory?
Most of the heat from a conservatory is lost through the roof. Drafty windows and conservatory doors can also be culprits.
Can you put heating in a conservatory?
Absolutely. As mentioned above, there are various heating options depending on your budget. From wall-mounted electric radiators to central heating.
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