Summer in Perth is like no other, with weekend barbeques, trips to the beach, and regular picnics on the agenda. But it can also bring some unbearably hot weather, and keeping your home cool can be a challenge. While the obvious solution, not everyone has air-conditioning (at least not in every room in the house), and it’s not the most energy-efficient or cost-effective solution. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical ways to keep your home comfortable and reduce energy bills during summer.

Natural Ventilation

One of the easiest ways to keep your home cool is by letting nature do the work. Open windows on opposite sides of your house to create a cross-breeze. Ceiling fans and portable fans can enhance airflow, pushing hot air out and drawing cooler air in. For optimal results, use fans in combination with strategically placed open windows during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late evening.

Block Out the Sun

Sunlight streaming through windows can quickly turn a cool room into a sauna. Using blinds, curtains, or shutters during the hottest parts of the day can significantly reduce heat. Light-coloured window coverings are particularly effective, as they reflect light rather than absorbing it. For outdoor areas, consider installing awnings, pergolas, or external shades. Not only do they help keep your home cooler, but they also protect your furniture and flooring from sun damage.

Choose the Right Greenery

Believe it or not, the right plants and landscaping can help keep your home cooler. Trees, shrubs, and climbing plants planted near windows and walls provide natural shade and reduce heat absorption. Deciduous trees are also particularly useful, as they provide shade in summer but let sunlight through in winter once their leaves have fallen (just make sure you’re armed with a rake or leaf blower!). Even small garden beds and green walls can make a noticeable difference to outdoor and indoor temperatures. Waldecks, here we come!

Insulate Your Home

Insulation isn’t just for keeping your home warm in winter. Proper insulation in ceilings, walls, and floors can prevent unwanted heat from entering your home during summer. Similarly, sealing gaps around doors and windows stops hot air from sneaking in and cool air from escaping. A well-insulated home is not only more comfortable but also more energy-efficient, meaning lower electricity bills when you do rely on air conditioning or fans.

Be Smart with Appliances

Many household appliances generate heat, often without us noticing. Ovens, stovetops, and dryers can make your home warmer than it needs to be. On those 40℃ days, try using smaller appliances like microwaves or slow cookers, or plan meals that don’t require cooking. Even electronics like TVs and computers can add to indoor temperatures, so consider turning them off or using them minimally during the hottest parts of the day. Dare we suggest reading a book?

Use Cooling Techniques in the Evening

Thankfully, Australian summers often feature cooler evenings. Take advantage of this by ventilating your home at night. Open windows and doors to let the cooler night air flow through your house, and use fans to help distribute it. In some cases, keeping windows open overnight can reduce the need for air conditioning the following day.

Invest in Energy-Efficient Cooling Options

If you rely on air conditioning, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. Reverse-cycle split systems are popular because they provide both heating and cooling, allowing year-round comfort. Ensure your air conditioning unit is well-maintained: clean filters, properly sealed ductwork, and regular servicing can make a huge difference to efficiency and performance. Ceiling fans are also a low-cost, energy-efficient way to complement air conditioning, helping the cool air circulate more effectively.

Plan Ahead

Summer temperatures can be extreme, so being proactive early can save both discomfort and money later. With a few simple changes, your home can become a haven from the heat, where you can relax, entertain, and make the most of the summer.