When the temperature climbs, most of us think about staying hydrated, finding some shade and avoiding the midday sun. But there’s another household essential that needs a bit of summer care too: your router.

Your Hyperhub router (and Minihub extender, if you have Total Wi-Fi) works hard around the clock to keep your home connected. Like most electronics, it’s happiest when it’s cool, dry and well ventilated, which means a heatwave is exactly the kind of weather that can put it under a bit of extra strain. The good news is that keeping it safe is simple, and it only takes a few small changes to where and how it’s set up.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Keep it cool and out of direct sunlight

It might be tempting to pop your router on a sunny windowsill, but heat and direct sunlight are not its friends. Keep your Hyperhub and Minihub indoors and well away from anything that generates heat, such as radiators or oven hobs, as well as out of direct sunlight altogether.

Give it room to breathe

Routers need airflow to stay cool, so think about where yours is sitting. A flat surface like a desk or cabinet works well, and wall-mounting is fine too, as long as there’s nothing blocking the air around it. Avoid placing it on soft furnishings or in tight spaces, such as carpets, rugs, inside cupboards, or tucked behind the sofa. These all trap heat and restrict airflow, which is the last thing you want in warmer weather.

Steer clear of other electricals

Microwaves, fridges and Bluetooth devices can all interfere with your equipment, so try to keep your Hyperhub and Minihub at a safe distance from anything with a strong magnetic or electric output.

Keep liquids well away

This one applies all year round, but it’s worth a reminder: keep your equipment dry, and make sure there’s no chance of liquid spilling onto or into it.

Avoid flammable substances and atmospheres

Don’t use flammable substances on or near your devices, and keep them out of spaces where flammable atmospheres might build up, such as a garage or workshop.

Look after the cables

Cables that are twisted, pulled or wrapped tightly can wear down faster and become a safety risk over time, so give them some slack and check they’re sitting comfortably.

Cleaning and power

When it comes to cleaning, a soft, dry cloth is all you need. Liquids and solvents should never go near your equipment. And always use the power supply that came with your Hyperhub or Minihub rather than a third-party alternative.

A few small changes go a long way

None of this requires a big overhaul, just a sensible spot for your router and a bit of extra mindfulness while the weather’s warm. Following these steps will help keep your equipment running safely and your connection performing at its best, heatwave or not.

If you’ve got any concerns about your equipment or how it’s stored, simply log into My Account and our team will be happy to help.