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Cooling

Keeping your home cool in summer doesn't have to be expensive. You can reduce heat entering your home by up to 90% by:

• Insulation in ceilings (and walls and floors if possible)
• Choosing an appropriate cooling system
• Draught sealing around windows, doors and any other gaps
• External shading to north, east and west windows
• Ventilation to allow cool outside air into the house

Ventilation and Zoning

• For summer conditions, a home’s openings should be designed to take advantage of cooling daytime breezes and ensure cool night-time ventilation to flush out the heat of the day.
• The size and position of windows should be carefully planned according to the direction they face and the type of building materials used in the home.
• Natural cross ventilation occurs more efficiently through a room with openings in opposite walls than through a room with openings in adjacent walls.
• Aim to create as many obstruction-free breeze paths as possible in your home. Multiple breeze paths will provide you with effective ventilation even if some doors/windows are closed.
• Install windows that can be locked in a partly open position for ventilation and security.
• Ceiling fans in living areas and bedrooms can assist both ventilation and personal cooling in summer.