Yogurt-Coated Windows Cut Indoor Heat by 6.3 Degrees Fahrenheit

In the midst of a severe heatwave, a UK professor has discovered an unconventional method to cool homes, which has gained attention as energy bills soar and temperatures rise. Dr. Ben Roberts, a researcher at Loughborough University, found that applying yogurt to windows can significantly reduce indoor temperatures. This discovery comes as the UK faces a severe heatwave, exacerbating the lack of air conditioning in many homes and prompting innovative solutions.

The study involved two identical test houses, one with yogurt-smeared windows and the other without. Over a month, the yogurt-coated house maintained an average temperature of one degree Fahrenheit cooler than the other. On particularly hot and sunny days, the difference was as much as 6.3 degrees Fahrenheit. The yogurt creates a film on the windows that blocks some solar radiation, thereby reducing the heat that enters the home.

Dr. Roberts used Greek yogurt with a 10% fat content for the experiment. He noted that the yogurt's smell dissipated quickly once it dried, taking less than a minute. However, he did not address potential issues such as attracting bugs to the windows. The professor expressed surprise at the effectiveness of yogurt in blocking heat, admitting he did not anticipate such significant results.

This method offers a cost-effective and accessible solution for homeowners struggling with high energy bills and rising temperatures. As traditional cooling methods become increasingly expensive, unconventional approaches like yogurt application may provide a viable alternative. The study highlights the potential of everyday household items in addressing environmental challenges, encouraging further exploration into sustainable and affordable cooling solutions.