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

Portable vs Split System Air Conditioning

Quick Verdict

Split systems are more efficient, quieter, and better for permanent solutions. Portable ACs are suitable for renters, temporary needs, or rooms where installation is impossible. Expect portable units to cost 2-3x more to run for equivalent cooling.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Factor	Portable Air Conditioner	Split System Air Conditioner
Upfront Cost	$400-$1,200	$1,500-$4,000 (installed)
Running Cost	$0.80-$1.50/hour (equivalent cooling)	$0.45-$0.70/hour
Cooling Power	2-4.5kW typical	2.5-9kW+ available
Best Climate	All climates	All climates
DIY Install?	Yes	No

Portable Air Conditioner

Freestanding unit on wheels with exhaust hose vented through window.

Pros

No installation required
Can move between rooms
Suitable for renters
Lower upfront cost
No landlord permission needed

Cons

Very inefficient (single-duct loses cool air)
Noisy (compressor is in the room)
Takes up floor space
Limited cooling capacity
Window kit required

Split System Air Conditioner

Wall-mounted indoor unit with outdoor compressor. Permanently installed.

Pros

Highly efficient (3-6 star ratings)
Much quieter (compressor outside)
No floor space used
Higher cooling capacity
Also heats in winter

Cons

Requires professional installation
Higher upfront cost
Permanent - not for renters usually
Outdoor unit takes space
May need landlord approval

Climate Zone Guide

Hot-Dry Climates (WA, SA, Inland)

In hot-dry climates, portable evaporative coolers are more effective and cheaper than portable AC. If refrigerative cooling is needed, a split system is far more efficient.

Hot-Humid Climates (QLD, NT)

In humid climates, portable AC dehumidifies which is beneficial, but the inefficiency makes running costs very high. Split systems are strongly recommended for regular use.

Temperate Climates (VIC, NSW, ACT)

Portable AC can work for occasional use in temperate climates. For regular summer cooling, a split system pays for itself in energy savings within 2-4 years.

Cost Analysis

A portable AC costs $0.80-$1.50/hour to achieve similar cooling as a split system at $0.45-$0.70/hour. Over summer (120 days, 8 hours/day), portable costs $770-$1,440 to run; split system costs $430-$670. The efficiency gap means a split system saves $340-$770 per summer in running costs alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are portable air conditioners so inefficient?

Single-duct portable ACs exhaust hot air outside, creating negative pressure that draws warm air in through gaps. This wastes 30-50% of cooling capacity. Dual-duct models are better but still less efficient than split systems. The compressor inside the room also adds heat.

Are portable AC units worth it for renters?

They can be, as the only option. Expect higher running costs and noise. Tips: choose a dual-duct model if possible, properly seal the window kit, and size appropriately (don't undersize). Consider a portable evaporative cooler if you're in a dry climate.

Can I install a split system in a rental?

Usually requires landlord approval, who may or may not agree. Some landlords will install one if you sign a longer lease. In strata apartments, you may need body corporate approval for the outdoor unit. Some newer rentals come with split systems pre-installed.

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