Without breaking the bank!

Kem Ormond

We have been told this year we are heading into a sizzling summer. . . are you prepared?

If you are considering some cooling systems, it will pay to check out your options and what will best suit your home and the way that you live.

Options

There are various options available, but some will definitely cool your home better than others.

There are pedestal fans, roof fans, tower fans, mobile air conditioners and then there are fully installed air con units as well as ducted systems.

Heat pump/AC unit

If you are looking for a long-term solution, then a heat pump/air conditioning unit would solve your problem.

We all want to keep our homes cool in summer; the ideal temperature is somewhere between 18-21 degrees. Keeping to this temperature means your unit will require less effort to adjust and maintain to your environment.

The indoor unit sucks in hot air and then releases cool air back into the room. The energy from the warm air travels through pipes to the outside unit via a refrigeration process that then disperses it into the outside air. You will find this a far more efficient use of power in the long run, and they cool the room down quickly as well as covering a good area although this is dependable on the size of your unit.

You may already have a heat pump/air conditioning system installed. Now may be the time to look at how energy efficient it is. Replacing the system with a new, more technologically advanced model, can help reduce energy consumption and the household spend on power. Have a chat to your local installer and distributor who will be able to advise what will be the best unit for you.

Ducted

If you decide you want cooling coverage for your entire home, then you will need to consider a ducted system, not a cheap option but it will certainly ensure your home is adequately cooled throughout. These can often be controlled via a control pad or in some cases via a phone app.

If you feel you need multi heat pump/AC units through your home, then a ducted system would be worth considering.

One thing you will need to check with a ducted system is whether you have sufficient ceiling space.

Ceiling fans

These actually boil down to some basic physics. They pull hot air up and push cold air down. What they really do is improve circulation. Forget the idea if you have low ceilings!

Affordable options

Pedestal or mobile fans can give you an instant blast of cool air. Although instant you do need to sit quite close to get the effect! The new bladeless technology makes a fan look more stylish and safer for curious fingers.

Free options

Pull curtains, open doors, choose light bedding and persuade your children you too can fit in that paddling pool.

Enjoy the summer and stay cool.