What research are the recommendations based on?

Our recommendations are built on authoritative Australian sources: the Australian Government's YourHome guide (yourhome.gov.au) for passive cooling principles, the National Construction Code (NCC) climate zone classifications, CSIRO housing research on thermal comfort, and NatHERS energy rating guidelines. Product recommendations feature items rated by CHOICE and verified on ProductReview.com.au.

Is CoolMyHouse really free?

Yes, completely free with no catches. You get personalised recommendations, a PDF action plan, and shareable results. We don't sell your data. Some product links are affiliate links (we may earn a small commission if you purchase), but this doesn't affect which products we recommend.

I already have air conditioning. Will this help me?

Absolutely! Many of our highest-impact recommendations help you use your existing AC more efficiently. We'll suggest strategies like optimising your ducted zone controls, pre-cooling before heatwaves, using ceiling fans alongside AC (which lets you set the thermostat 2-3°C higher), and reducing heat gain so your AC doesn't work as hard.

We've got you covered. When you select 'rent', we automatically filter to non-permanent solutions: portable evaporative coolers, removable window film, internal blockout blinds, door draft stoppers, and behavioral strategies like night purging and cross-ventilation.

Does this work for apartments and units?

Yes! While some recommendations are house-specific (like roof ventilation), many apply equally to apartments: window film, internal blinds, ceiling fans, sealing air gaps, cross-ventilation strategies, and portable cooling options.

What about two-storey homes?

Two-storey homes have unique challenges - heat rises, making upper floors significantly hotter. We provide specific recommendations: ensuring adequate ceiling insulation, installing ceiling fans on the upper floor, using stairwell doors to contain cool air, and optimising ducted AC zones.

How much can I actually save?

Typical Australian households spend $600-1,200/year on cooling. Our users commonly save 30-50% by implementing high-impact recommendations. External shading on west windows can save $100-250/year, ceiling fans used with AC can save $100-300/year, and proper ceiling insulation can save $180-400/year.

What makes west-facing windows so critical?

The afternoon sun (1-6pm) hits west-facing windows at a low angle, penetrating deep into rooms. A large unshaded west window can add 1-2kW of heat - equivalent to running a bar heater! External shading blocks 80% of heat before it enters, while internal blinds only block 20-30%.

How do climate zones affect my recommendations?

Australia has 8 distinct climate zones, and strategies that work in Perth can fail in Darwin. In hot-dry climates (WA, SA) with humidity under 40%, evaporative cooling is excellent. In hot-humid climates (QLD, NT) with 60-80% humidity, evaporative cooling is ineffective - you need refrigerative AC instead.

Can I trust the product recommendations?

We only recommend products that are highly rated by Australian consumers (4+ stars), readily available (Bunnings, Amazon AU), and appropriate for your situation. Some links are affiliate links, but this never influences our recommendations.

Can I share my results?

Yes! You can share via a unique link (which includes your assessment data so others see your specific recommendations), get a detailed PDF report emailed to you, or print the page.

CoolMyHouse

How to Choose the Best Window Film

Window film is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce heat gain, blocking 30-60% of solar heat while maintaining views. It's particularly effective on west-facing windows and is a great option for renters as many types are removable.

Key Features to Understand

Types of Film

Reflective films are cheapest but visible from outside. Ceramic films offer the best heat rejection with minimal tint - worth the extra cost for main living areas.

Heat Rejection Rating

Look for Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) percentage. Basic films reject 30-40%, quality ceramic films reject 50-70%. Higher is better but often means darker tint.

UV Protection

Quality films block 99%+ of UV rays, protecting furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading while also protecting skin from UV exposure.

What to Look For

✓High TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejected) rating - 50%+ for best results
✓UV rejection of 99% or higher
✓Ceramic technology for low-tint, high-performance options
✓Warranty that covers bubbling, peeling, and colour change
✓Compatibility with your window type (check for double glazing restrictions)
✓Static cling options for renters (removable without residue)

What to Avoid

✗Very cheap films with short warranties - they fade and bubble quickly
✗Dark films on windows you want clear views from
✗Applying film to double glazing without checking manufacturer compatibility
✗DIY on large or high windows unless you have experience

Typical Price Ranges

Budget

$30-$80 per window (DIY)

Mid-Range

$100-$200 per window (professional)

Premium

$200-$400 per window (ceramic/specialty)

💡 Note: Professional installation ensures bubble-free application and usually includes better warranty. DIY is feasible with practice but expect your first window to take time.

Climate Considerations

Window film is beneficial in all Australian climates. It's most valuable on west-facing windows which receive intense afternoon sun. In cooler climates, consider that solar film also reduces winter heat gain, which may increase heating costs slightly.

Research Resources

We recommend these credible sources for comparing specific products and finding current reviews:

CHOICE Window Film Guide

Independent advice on home energy efficiency

Window Film Association

Industry standards and finding certified installers

YourHome - Glazing

Government guide on window performance and solar control

Frequently Asked Questions

Does window film void glass warranty?

Some films can void warranties on double glazing or low-E glass by trapping heat and causing stress fractures. Check with your window manufacturer before applying. Most single-glazed windows are fine. Lighter tints are generally safer than dark films.

Can I install window film myself?

Yes, DIY films are designed for home application. Success tips: clean glass thoroughly, use plenty of application solution, use a squeegee to remove bubbles, and work on cooler days. Expect your first window to take 30+ minutes as you learn.

How much can window film save on cooling costs?

Properly applied film can reduce AC runtime by 20-30% by blocking 30-60% of solar heat gain. For a typical home with significant west glass, this translates to $100-$300 per summer in energy savings. Payback is typically 1-3 years.

Related Guides

Guide

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