As the weather warms up, many of us start thinking about how to keep our homes cool and comfortable — without sending our energy bills soaring. Summer in Western Australia can be harsh, and staying cool often means cranking up the air conditioning, but there are smarter, more sustainable ways to prepare your home for the heat.
Whether you rent, own, or are planning renovations, now is the perfect time to explore energy-smart upgrades that reduce your environmental impact and save you money.
Passive Cooling: Your First Line of Defence
Before you reach for the remote, consider how your home can stay cooler naturally. Passive cooling uses design and materials to reduce heat gain and improve airflow — no electricity required. Simple passive cooling strategies include:
- Shading windows with external blinds, awnings, or trees.
- Closing curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day.
- Opening windows in the evening to let cooler air in.
- Using light-coloured roofing and walls to reflect heat.
- Sealing gaps and cracks to keep hot air out and cool air in.
If you’re building or renovating, consider orientation, insulation, and ventilation as key design elements for a cooler, more efficient home.
Efficient Cooling: Smarter Use of Air Conditioning
Air conditioning can be a lifesaver — but it’s also one of the biggest energy users in the home. Here’s how to use it wisely:
- Set your thermostat to 24–26°C — every degree lower can increase energy use by up to 10%.
- Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air and reduce reliance on AC.
- Close doors and windows when the AC is running to keep cool air in.
- Clean filters regularly to keep your system running efficiently.
- Use zoning if available, to cool only the rooms you’re using.
Insulation: The Unsung Hero of Energy Efficiency
Insulation isn’t just for winter. In summer, it helps keep the heat out — reducing the need for cooling and making your home more comfortable. Key areas to insulate include:
- Ceilings and roofs — where most heat enters.
- Walls — especially west-facing ones.
- Floors — particularly in raised homes.
If you’re unsure what insulation your home has, consider getting an energy assessment or speaking to your local council about available support.
Smart Appliances and Energy Habits
Summer often means more cooking, more laundry, and more time at home — all of which can increase energy use. Here’s how to keep it in check:
- Use appliances during off-peak times if you’re on a time-of-use tariff.
- Switch to energy-efficient appliances when replacing old ones.
- Turn off devices at the wall to avoid standby power.
- Air-dry laundry outside instead of using a dryer.
- Use the eco mode on appliances such as the dishwasher and washing machine.
- Cook outside or use a microwave to reduce indoor heat.
Bright Ideas: Lighting and Solar Power
Lighting may not be the biggest energy user in your home, but switching to LEDs can still make a noticeable difference — especially if you’re decorating for the festive season. LED lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer, meaning fewer replacements and less waste.
If you’re ready to take a bigger step, consider solar panels and battery storage. These upgrades allow you to harness the summer sun to power your home sustainably, reducing reliance on the grid and cutting your energy bills for years to come. Through our Rewards for Residents program, residents can access exclusive discounts on solar panels and energy-efficient LED lighting, making it easier and more affordable to upgrade. Pair these savings with rebates and incentives from your local council or energy provider — many are available for solar, insulation, and energy-efficient appliances — and you’ll see how investing in clean energy can pay off quickly.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Preparing your home for summer doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Even small changes — like using fans more often or shading windows — can make a big difference to your comfort, your energy bill, and your environmental footprint.
Want to take the next step? Borrow one of our free Energy Audit Kits to discover where you can cut energy use at home. These kits include tools to measure the energy and water efficiency of your home to help you make informed decisions about upgrades like insulation, efficient appliances, or solar power. It’s a simple, hands-on way to start saving energy and money while reducing your impact on the planet.
Switch Your Thinking is here to help you make smarter energy choices all year round. Keep an eye on our Events page for upcoming workshops, webinars, and community programs to support your sustainable living journey.
