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

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

South Australia Energy Rebates for Cooling

South Australia offers energy efficiency rebates through the Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS). Given SA has Australia's highest electricity costs, these rebates are particularly valuable for reducing both upfront and ongoing cooling costs.

Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS)

REPS requires energy retailers to help customers improve energy productivity. This funds rebates on efficient products through accredited providers.

Visit Official Website

Available Rebates

Reverse-Cycle Air Conditioning

$200-$800 depending on system

Discounts on high-efficiency AC when replacing old systems or electric heating.

Eligibility

Replacing old inefficient heating or cooling
New system meets efficiency standards
Installed by REPS-accredited provider

Products Covered

Split system ACDucted reverse-cycle

How to Apply

Contact REPS-accredited HVAC installers. Rebate is applied to your invoice.

Learn More

Ceiling Insulation

$300-$1,500

Discounts on ceiling insulation installation for homes with inadequate existing insulation.

Eligibility

Existing insulation below required R-value
Home assessment confirms eligibility
Installed by REPS-accredited provider

Products Covered

Ceiling battsBlown-in insulation

How to Apply

Get quotes from REPS-accredited insulation providers.

Learn More

Draught Sealing

$50-$300

Discounts on professional draught sealing services.

Eligibility

Existing home with air leakage issues
Work performed by REPS-accredited provider

Products Covered

Door sealsWindow sealsExhaust fan seals

How to Apply

Contact REPS-accredited draught sealing providers.

Learn More

Tips for Maximizing Savings

With SA's high electricity costs (42-47c/kWh), efficiency upgrades have excellent payback
Prioritize insulation - it reduces cooling AND heating costs
Some energy retailers offer additional incentives on top of REPS
Get multiple quotes to ensure competitive pricing even with rebates

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is efficiency so important in South Australia?

SA has Australia's highest electricity costs at 42-47 cents per kWh. An efficient AC saves 10-20% on running costs, which is $50-$150 per year. Over 10 years, that's $500-$1,500 in savings just from choosing a more efficient model.

How do I find REPS-accredited providers?

Contact your energy retailer for a list of accredited providers, or ask HVAC/insulation installers if they participate in REPS. The rebate should be clearly shown on quotes from participating providers.

Can I combine REPS with other discounts?

Yes, you can combine REPS rebates with retailer sales, manufacturer promotions, etc. Check for multiple savings opportunities. Some energy retailers also offer additional rebates for their customers.

Get Your Personalized SA Cooling Plan

Answer 5 quick questions about your home and see which rebate-eligible upgrades are most impactful for your situation.

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