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

Cooling & Energy Rebates by State

Australian states offer various rebates and incentives for energy-efficient cooling. Find out what's available in your state and how to claim.

Save 30-50% on Cooling Equipment

Victoria and NSW have the strongest rebate programs. Victorians can save $500-$2,000+ on air conditioning and insulation through the VEU scheme. Always check rebates before purchasing.

Select Your State

Victoria

Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU)

Avg savings: $400-$1,500 on typical cooling upgrades

New South Wales

Energy Savings Scheme (ESS)

Avg savings: $100-$500 on typical cooling upgrades

South Australia

Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS)

Avg savings: $300-$1,000 on typical cooling upgrades

Queensland

Various Programs

Avg savings: $372+ per year for eligible households

Western Australia

Energy Assistance

Avg savings: $305+ per year for eligible households

Australian Capital Territory

Sustainable Household Scheme

Avg savings: Interest savings of $500-$2,000+ on loans; product discounts vary

Tasmania

Energy Assistance

Avg savings: Varies by eligibility

Northern Territory

Energy Concessions

Avg savings: Varies by eligibility

Strongest Rebate Programs

Best in Australia

Victoria - VEU Scheme

30-50% off air conditioning, insulation, draught sealing. Discounts applied at point of sale through accredited providers.

Strong program

NSW - Energy Savings Scheme

Discounts on energy-efficient appliances through participating retailers. Check eligibility before purchase.

How to Maximise Rebates

Check before you buy: Always research rebates before purchasing. Many require using accredited providers.

Bundle upgrades: Doing insulation + AC together often qualifies for larger discounts than separate purchases.

Get multiple quotes: Different providers may offer different rebate amounts. Compare at least 3 quotes.

Check concession cards: Pensioners and health card holders often qualify for additional rebates.

Get Your Personalized Cooling Plan

Find out which cooling solutions are best for your home and what rebates you may be eligible for.

Get My Free Plan