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.

Can I install a split system air conditioner myself?

No, not the complete installation. Australian law requires a licensed refrigeration mechanic (with ARCtick licence) to handle refrigerants and connect the system. You can legally do prep work like mounting brackets and drilling holes, but the actual AC connection must be professional.

What happens if I install an AC myself illegally?

Illegal refrigerant handling can result in fines up to $20,000+ for individuals. You'll void the manufacturer warranty, your home insurance may not cover damage, and improper installation can cause refrigerant leaks (environmental damage and system failure) or electrical hazards.

Is it worth doing prep work myself?

If you're handy, doing prep work can save $100-300. However, if you make mistakes (wrong hole position, weak bracket mounting), you may end up paying more for corrections. Discuss with your installer first — some prefer to handle everything themselves.

Do I need council approval to install an air conditioner?

Usually not for standard residential installations. However, heritage-listed properties, strata/apartment buildings, and some council areas have specific requirements. Check with your local council and body corporate (if applicable) before installation.

DIY vs Professional AC Installation | What You Can & Can't Do

The Legal Reality in Australia

In Australia, working with refrigerants requires an ARCtick licence. This means the actual connection and commissioning of split systems and ducted air conditioners must be done by a licensed refrigeration mechanic. However, there are preparatory and finishing tasks that handy homeowners can legally do themselves.

What You CAN Do Yourself

These tasks are legal for homeowners and can save $200-500 on installation:

Mounting the indoor unit bracket (follow manufacturer specifications exactly)
Drilling the wall hole for pipes (if you're confident with masonry/timber)
Running electrical cable from switchboard to outdoor unit location (if competent)
Building a concrete pad or installing anti-vibration mounts for outdoor unit
Installing the outdoor unit cage or cover
Painting or finishing around the installation
Installing a portable or window-mounted evaporative cooler (no refrigerant)

Warning: Electrical work connecting to the switchboard requires a licensed electrician in all Australian states. DIY electrical work is illegal and dangerous.

What MUST Be Done by Professionals

These tasks legally require licensed tradespeople:

Handling refrigerant (requires ARCtick licence) — all split system connections
Connecting to electrical switchboard (requires licensed electrician)
Gas fitting for gas ducted heating (requires gas fitter licence)
Any work requiring a permit from your local council
Commissioning and testing the refrigeration circuit

Portable and Window Units: The DIY Exception

Portable air conditioners and window-mounted units that come pre-charged with refrigerant can be installed by homeowners. You simply position the unit, connect the exhaust hose, and plug it in. No licensed tradesperson required — though window units may need minor carpentry for proper fitting.

The Hybrid Approach: Save Money Legally

Many homeowners save money by doing the prep work themselves:

Choose and mark the installation locations (indoor and outdoor units)
Clear access to the installation areas
Build or prepare the outdoor unit base
Drill the wall penetration hole (if confident)
Run cable and pipe conduit (installer just pulls through)
Have the electrician install the circuit beforehand

Tip: Discuss with your installer what prep work they're happy for you to do. Some prefer to do everything themselves to guarantee the result.

Installation Cost Breakdown

Understanding where the money goes helps you decide what to DIY:

Standard split system installation: $600-1,200 (back-to-back, single storey)
Complex installation (long pipe run, multi-storey): $1,200-2,500
Electrical circuit addition: $250-500 (separate licensed electrician)
Concrete pad: $50-150 DIY, $200-400 if installer does it
Wall bracket and hole: Often included, or $50-150 if complex

Warranty Considerations

Most manufacturer warranties require professional installation. If you attempt DIY work on the refrigeration system and something fails, your warranty is void. Even if you did legal prep work poorly (bad bracket mounting, incorrect hole position), it could affect warranty claims if it contributed to the failure.

Finding a Good Installer

When hiring a professional:

Verify ARCtick licence (search online at arctick.org)
Check for adequate insurance
Get 3 quotes minimum for comparison
Ask about warranty on their workmanship (typically 1-5 years)
Read Google/ProductReview reviews
Ask if they handle the electrical or subcontract it

DIY vs Professional Air Conditioner Installation in Australia