Chill Out

Cranking up the aircon isn’t your only option this summer: with smart changes, you can stay cool and keep costs down, writes Georgia Madden.

Outside it’s a scorcher – but if the thought of your next power bill is causing you as much stress as finding a way to sleep through another warm night, don’t despair. With a few minor changes to your home and daily habits, it is possible to keep the indoor temperature down without having crippling energy costs. Here are some strategies you could consider.

Don’t let the sun in

The best way to keep your home cool is to prevent heat from entering – and external shading is your first line of defence, says Frances Cosway, head designer at White Pebble Interiors. “External blinds, retractable awnings, shade sails and angled louvres are some of the best options,” she says. The right internal blinds can also help, says Vera Meharg, marketing communications manager at Luxaflex Window Fashions. When you’re selecting interior window coverings for temperature control, choose a style that sits close to the glass in a sunscreen-style fabric that will reflect heat and UV rays, or opt for an insulating fabric, she says.

Turn it down

Flicking the switch is sometimes the only option on those searing days, but there are ways to keep running costs to a minimum. “Set your air conditioner to 24°C – every degree below that adds an extra five per cent to energy bills,” says Jan Prichard, general manager of customer care at energy retailer Origin. “Close the windows and doors and seal gaps. Cooling only the space you’re in rather than the whole house can save you about $470 per year,” she says.

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