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Keep your cool in summer with these five ideas for heat-proofing your interiors – how to block the worst of the heat from entering your home, plus energy-efficient tips for dropping the temperature back to a comfortable level.
Fans cool by creating a breeze that travels over your skin as you perspire. Fixed versions, like ceiling fans, need to be installed by a licensed electrician, but portable models simply plug in – great if you’re renting. Seek advice on the right fan for your room size. Fans are relatively cost-efficient to run and, if combined with air con, can boost the effectiveness of both, advises Bunnings national electrical buyer John Campbell. “Use a ceiling fan to distribute cool air more evenly, allowing you to set your air conditioner's thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort,” he says.
Air conditioners reduce the actual temperature of the air in a room. Fixed models, including reverse-cycles that also heat in winter, need to be professionally installed and maintained. “Replace or clean your air filter every one to three months for efficient airflow,” says John. “Clean the coils annually, check and clear the drain line and inspect ductwork for leaks. Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris and schedule a professional tune-up yearly.” Portable models are handy for single rooms, but need to be close to a window for venting and a power point (don’t use an extension cord).
Insulation reduces the transfer of heat through exterior structural surfaces like walls and ceilings, helping to keep your interiors cooler in summer. Its performance is measured in R-value, and the rating suitable for your home varies depending on how it is constructed and the climate where you live. Certain insulation types are best installed when building or renovating, and by professionals. Others, such as some bulk insulation, can be D.I.Y. fitted if you have good access to the area, like a roof space. Also consider the underfloor, says the team at Knauf Insulation: “Installing insulation that has a wind-wash barrier can prevent losing up to 20 per cent of heat and cold through draughty floors.”
Double or triple-glazed windows work better than standard single glazing to reduce heat gain (or loss). Consult the Window Energy Efficiency Rating System (WEERS), which uses a star rating system with a maximum of six stars. The scheme also records the thermal efficiency or R-value of each window (or glazed door). But if you live in a northern region, also consider the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which measures how the window performs when hit by sunlight. A low-tech solution is to install curtains and/or close-fitting blinds, and keep them shut against the heat of the day. As the day cools, open windows to allow any cross breezes to waft heat out of your home.
External blinds, awnings, louvres and shutters all keep direct sun from hitting windows, working better than indoor window coverings as the heat doesn’t get the chance to enter. In summer, deciduous trees deliver natural leafy shade, while in winter their bare branches admit some sun for light and warmth. Before planting, check proximity to overhead and underground services.
Get more tips for cooling solutions to lower the temperature inside your place.
Photo credit: Brigid Arnott
