50 Cooling Tips to Beat Melbourne’s Summer Heat

Melbourne’s scorching heat is no joke. When temperatures reach the high 30’s and into the 40s, staying cool is essential. From the dry heat of Melbourne’s west to the uncomfortable humidity of the bayside, implementing quality cooling measures for your home will help you beat the heat.

We assembled our best technicians to develop this ultimate list of 50 cooling tips to survive this summer. From optimising the way you use your air conditioner to DIY cooling hacks, these tips focus on practical things that all Melbourne residents can do. For an in-depth look at all aspects of air conditioning, including installation, maintenance, and choosing the best system for your needs, explore our Ultimate Guide to Air Conditioning in Melbourne.

At Thomas Air Conditioning, we’ve helped countless homeowners get the most out of their cooling. These tried-and-true methods will ensure that you stay cool in high temperatures. If you’re after specialised help with regards to your cooling system, check out our cooling services.

Smart Ways to Use Your Air Conditioner

Changing the way you use your air conditioner will seriously improve your comfort levels during the extreme heat. These can be the difference between a miserable summer and a relaxing, cool home. Give them a try and watch the drastic change you feel.

1. Keep your AC running at 22–24°C to balance comfort and energy savings.

   Don’t go overboard, 22-24°C is sufficient to cool you and your family throughout summer. The Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water recommends setting your AC to 25-27°C which we believe is a little too conservative. Our AC experts recommend setting your air conditioner to 8 degrees below the outside temperature.

2. Turn on your air conditioner early in the day to cool the house before it heats up.

   Instead of waiting all day for your home to heat up, we suggest starting the cooling early to reduce the strain on your system. In summer you can’t afford to get hot and stuffy, so mitigate this by not giving your home the chance to get hot in the first place. (you’ll be more comfy)

3. Use your AC’s “fan mode” during cooler evenings to circulate air.

   On a cooler summer evening in Melbourne instead of completely switching off your AC, try changing the settings to “fan mode”. This will keep the fresh air constantly moving throughout your home reducing the summer stuffiness that we dread.

4. Close doors and windows when using your air conditioner to keep the cool air inside.

   This might be the most obvious of cooling solutions, however, it can be a lifesaver. Heat will infiltrate your home if given the chance. Once your system has worked hard to cool your home, don’t let it escape, make sure all windows and doors are closed so you can finally relax in the sweltering heat. P.S. Every bit of lost cool air is costing you money due to your AC working harder to restore the cool air and remove the heat.

5. Position furniture away from vents to avoid blocking airflow.

   Make sure that there is a good level of clearance from vents and AC systems to allow for unobstructed airflow.
   Check your home for common vent obstructions such as:

   • Bookshelves
   • Cabinets
   • Furniture
   • Hanging Decor

   Blocked vents can cause uneven cooling which leads to undesirable comfort levels, and rising energy bills due to the system compensating.

6. Turn off your AC at night and use a fan if temperatures drop.

   Melbourne regularly sees temperatures significantly drop during summer, which means that air conditioning systems can be overkill. You can practically rely on your fan because they provide a gentle airflow which promotes good sleep without being too cold. This will save you money as fans are more cost-effective to run, with the added benefit of not sacrificing comfort.

7. Check that zoning is on for rooms in use and off for rooms that aren’t.

   If you have a ducted air conditioning system with zoning capabilities you can close off certain areas and rooms to direct the airflow to where you need it. If a room doesn’t get used often it’s good practice to close off that vent in order to prioritise your living spaces. This keeps you cool while ensuring that your cooling isn’t going to waste.

8. Schedule professional servicing before summer to ensure your AC runs efficiently.

   It’s imperative that you have a qualified AC technician come check your air conditioner at least once per year to make sure your unit can withstand those difficult Melbourne heatwaves. Our team of air conditioning maintenance professionals will conduct a thorough service so you’re prepared for the next summer.

   It’s best to schedule professional servicing before summer to ensure your AC runs efficiently. If you’re not sure whether your air conditioner is the right size for your home, try our handy AC Size Calculator to find the ideal capacity for maximum efficiency and comfort.

9. Use ceiling fans with your AC to spread cool air evenly throughout the room.

   This tip is perfect for Melbourne as our high temperatures can cause unwanted system strain, however, utilising your fan with the AC makes a delightful comfort combo. Your fan can circulate that cool air throughout the room more effectively. This allows you to raise the AC temp a little higher, maintaining the same level of comfort.

10. Keep curtains or blinds closed in rooms with AC to block heat from sunlight.

    We spoke about doors and windows being closed earlier, but the Sun can still get through windows. Utilising your already existing blinds, curtains, or shutters can stop most of that sunlight from turning your home into a fireball. It’s more energy-efficient to directly block the sun and will undoubtedly prevent pockets of heat.

Simple Cooling Tricks for Your Home

These are some of the best DIY cooling hacks for your Melbourne home. As wacky as they might sound they actually work and provide much-needed cooling in the hot period. Every little bit counts (right).

11. Open windows and doors early in the morning to let cool air circulate.

    Early Melbourne mornings are typically cooler than evenings so circulate that beautiful breeze throughout the home early. We’ve noticed that homes that open windows and doors before it gets hot are significantly cooler than homes that don’t. It will improve airflow and allow any unwanted heat to be replaced by fresh air.

12. Occupy areas of the home that aren’t north-facing to avoid direct sunlight.

    In Melbourne, the sun hits north-facing rooms directly causing maximum heat. This can be super uncomfortable and can feel like your AC is on overdrive trying to cool you. The best strategy here is to physically move to an area of the home that gets the least direct sunlight like a cooler back room of your home.

13. Use reflective window films to reduce heat entering your home.

    Installing reflective window films to prevent indoor heat build-up is a super effective and affordable solution. You can purchase these Mirror Tinted Adhesive Window Films from Bunnings, and they’re very easy to install blocking up to 98% of Ultraviolet Rays, 89% of Infrared Heat, and 87% of Light.

14. Hang damp sheets in front of open windows to create a DIY evaporative cooler.

    A more simplified evaporative cooler, utilising the same principle, the air passes through the damp sheet evaporating the water. This helps cool the air coming in for practically $0, all you have to do is follow these steps:

    1. Choose the Right Spot:
       • Select a window that lets air pass through.
       • Open another window or door on the opposite side.
    2. Prepare the Sheet:
       • Soak a sheet or thin towel and wring out the water until it is damp.
       • Hang the sheet over the window to cover the path of the air.
    3. Re-Wet as Needed:
       • Every so often, re-wet the sheet as it will naturally dry over time.

15. Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to chill the air.

    This hack is one of the oldest tricks in the book. This uses the evaporation method in the last trick but requires a fan to blow over the ice bowl to feel that cool breeze. If you’re suffering in Melbourne’s heat follow these steps for some temporary relief:

    1. Prepare the Ice:
       • Fill a bowl with ice cubes or frozen water bottles (the latter lasts longer and avoids spills).
    2. Position the Fan and Bowl:
       • Place the bowl of ice directly in front of the fan, ensuring the airflow passes over the ice.
       • Adjust the fan angle to direct the cool air toward where you’re sitting or sleeping.
    3. Maintain the Cooling Effect:
       • Replace the ice as it melts to keep the cooling effect consistent.

16. Rearrange furniture to improve airflow from windows, fans, or AC vents.

    Identify common home items that could be causing airflow obstructions. If you have AC vents, windows, and fans make sure that they have a clear path to distribute and circulate air. You might be tempted to place a portable air conditioner right in front of you, however, this will only create a more stuffy and uneven cooling throughout the room. Rearranging furniture is a simple, no-cost solution to promote a more balanced airflow distribution.

17. Use draft stoppers under doors to keep cool air in and hot air out.

    This cooling tip prevents heat from entering and cool air from escaping your room or home. This will maintain energy efficiency and comfort, eliminating uneven temperatures.

    1. Identify the Gaps:
       • Check under your doors; some doors have bigger gaps than others.
       • Measure the size of the gap to ensure a proper fit for the draft stopper.
    2. Choose Your Preferred Draft Stopper:
       • Fabric Draft Snakes: Flexible and easy to place.
       • Adhesive or Slide-On Door Sweeps: Permanent solutions for a tighter seal.
       • Double-Sided Draft Stoppers: Provide an extra layer of insulation.
    3. Install Correctly:
       • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.
       • Ensure it’s a tight and secure fit, and that no leaks are present.

    

18. Install door seals on external doors to block hot air.

    This cooling hack will take it to another level preventing those heat waves from penetrating your home. This trick helps improve the insulation of the main entry points of your home. A door seal from bunnings can work well. With rising energy costs in Melbourne, this is a great way to improve energy efficiency, keeping your home cool.

19. Use insulated or blackout curtains in rooms that get direct sunlight.

    These are an extra step you can take to stop the indoor temperature from rising. The goal with blackout curtains is to minimise or completely prevent direct sunlight from turning your room into a sauna during summer. Insulated curtains have a thermal backing that almost completely prevents the heat from radiating inside your home. Installing these curtains will help you control the indoor temperature better, increase energy efficiency, and allow your AC to work at its normal level.

20. Add houseplants near windows to help absorb heat and cool the air.

    Plants actually absorb heat, so if you strategically place your beloved plants behind a window this equals less heat entering your home. Plants also release moisture into the air through the transpiration effect, cooling the surrounding areas. Whilst this method might not move the needle it is worth a try as it will reduce heat even if it is a very small amount.

Low-Tech Ways to Stay Cool

These super simple low-tech ways to stay cool in Melbourne actually work and will give much-needed relief from the dreaded heat. Pair these methods together to get a compounded cooling effect.

21. Sleep with lightweight, breathable cotton sheets or bamboo bedding.

    Making the switch to more breathable sheets and bedding materials such as cotton and bamboo is a game changer. Regulating your body temperature during those hot nights is going to significantly boost your comfort and result in fewer sleepless nights. We’ve all woken up in the middle of the night, tossing and turning with no solution in sight. Look for cotton with a percale weave to maximise breathability and ensure you get that much-needed rest.

22. Freeze water bottles and use them as cold packs in bed or on the couch.

    Grab those plastic bottles you have lying and fill them almost full with water. Throw them in the freezer to use when you need them. You should place a thin towel on the bottle to create a layer between your skin and the bottle. Then you can apply to wherever you need cooling relief. If you do have ice packs lying around even better as you can use those which are specifically designed for cooling down an area of the body.

23. Take a cold shower before bed to lower your body temperature.

    Among the numerous benefits of cold showers, they can help lower your core body temperature so you don’t get so hot. According to Heathline, they can also help increase circulation by causing blood to travel through your deeper tissues much faster. Give this strategy a go to experience a new level of cooling.

24. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and cool.

    Melbourne’s heat can lead to a large amount of fluid and water loss. Healthdirect recommends drinking 2.6L of fluids per day for males, and 2.1L per day for females to reduce the chance of heat-related health issues. Drinking water regularly will help you stay hydrated and feel refreshed for longer.

25. Eat cold foods like salads and fruit to avoid generating body heat.

    The last thing you need on a hot day is extra heat from your kitchen. You might love to cook up a storm, however, be mindful that cooking can generate significant heat throughout the home causing your AC to work harder. If you’re eating hot foods this can raise your internal body temperature, opt for chilled, cooler options like chilled chicken salad or fruits such as watermelon.

26. Wet a washcloth with cold water and place it on your wrists or neck.

    This washcloth method provides instant heat relief and doesn’t need any fancy tools or equipment. Dampen a clean towel and place it on your neck for a lovely cooling effect. The towel will absorb your body heat and provide further cooling throughout your body.

27. Keep your hair tied up or in a wet towel for extra cooling.

    Having your hair down can cause more heat to accumulate around your head and shoulders. Tie your hair up to promote better airflow, and place it in a wet towel for a similar effect to the previous.

28. Chill your pillowcase in the freezer for a refreshing sleep aid.

    We can all remember flipping the pillow over to experience that cooling effect, take it to another level by chilling your pillowcase. Place the pillowcase in a plastic bag to not get it dirty and smelly then into your freezer 30 minutes before bed. Before bed place it on your pillow for a targeted cooling effect.

29. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing made from natural fabrics.

    Wearing loose, light-coloured clothes can encourage better air flow while reducing heat absorption. Tighter clothes can make you feel more restricted, causing unwanted discomfort. Colours like white, beige, and other lighter shades don’t absorb as much heat as dark colours.

30. Sit with your feet in a basin of cool water for instant relief.

    There’s something about placing your feet in cold water that just tells the body to feel good. Well, it’s actually scientific, your feet have a lot of blood vessels close to the skin lowering your blood’s temperature. This can provide much-needed relief from heat-related fatigue.

Energy-Saving Cooling Hacks

Want to save energy while handling your summer cooling needs? These tips prioritise energy efficiency without sacrificing your cooling. To determine if your AC is properly sized to provide adequate cooling during heatwaves, use our air conditioning size calculator.

31. Turn off lights during the day, as they can generate extra heat.

    Lights are a heat source, simple as that. Turn them off if they aren’t strictly necessary as air conditioners will work harder to cool your space. High energy rates in Melbourne mean that minimising your light usage will also lower your energy costs over time.

32. Use your washing machine and dishwasher at night when it’s cooler.

    You get the best of both worlds with this cooling hack. Using appliances like your washing machine or dishwasher during the day can completely subvert your AC’s cooling efforts. These appliances generate a lot of heat so prioritise these activities during the night or else your home could turn into a sauna.

33. Replace incandescent bulbs with LED lights that emit less heat.

    Incandescent light bulbs can increase the heat of a room as most of the energy they produce is heat. Switch to an energy-efficient option like LED lights that barely emit any heat and are far more eco-friendly. With less heat being generated, you don’t have to wonder why your room is still hot.

34. Cook outside on the BBQ instead of using your oven indoors.

    Your oven is a fireball waiting to heat your whole home. Try not to use your oven on a scorching hot day or you could be left extremely hot and bothered. Whip out that old BBQ and cook up a storm without the hassle of a hot home.

35. Install a programmable timer on your AC to avoid unnecessary use.

    Most air conditioners nowadays have this feature as standard, however, you do need to enable it. So make sure you’re taking advantage of this great feature that extends the life of your cooling unit and promotes energy efficiency.

36. Use a power strip to switch off electronics completely when not in use.

    This is a great way to reduce heat production, as many electronics still draw power even when turned off. These power strips can completely cut off what they call “phantom power” saving 5-10% on electricity usage. Look for a power strip with a switch.

37. Install reflective blinds or heat-blocking film on north-facing windows.

    North-facing windows receive the most direct sunlight in Melbourne. According to Reflective Blinds, solar films can cause heat loss of up to 45% providing substantial protection from the sun, and ultimately lowering indoor heat levels.

38. Wash your AC filters monthly during summer to ensure efficiency.

    Whilst we do recommend a licenced professional handle all air conditioning services, you can lightly wash your AC filters a couple of times a year. Check your air conditioner manufacturer’s manual to know whether you can wash them. There are a few types:

    • Washable Filters: You can wash these filters.
    • Reusable Filters: Some of these filters can’t be washed, so check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
    • Disposable Filters: These filters should be disposed of when they get dirty.

    This will allow unobstructed airflow and stop your AC from working harder than it needs to, saving you on energy costs. In a regular AC service, we thoroughly inspect the filters and major components to optimise energy usage.

39. Unplug chargers and appliances when not in use to reduce heat generation.

    Plugged-in devices and other equipment cause drive-up energy bills and heat generation, so be sure to unplug them when not in use. If you have a power strip with a switch like mentioned earlier then you can just turn the switch to the off position.

40. Shade your outdoor AC unit to improve its performance without obstructing airflow.

    If you can cool your outdoor unit then it won’t have to work as hard to release heat. Better performance means lower energy bills, so don’t just put something directly in front of it as this will obstruct airflow. Place an object further away that blocks direct sunlight and it will perform more efficiently. You might also have your outdoor unit under a pergola.

Outdoor Cooling Tips in Melbourne

If you spend more time outside during Summer, be smart and safe by implementing some of these golden cooling hacks for active Melbourne families.

41. Set up a portable shade structure like a gazebo or beach umbrella.

    Use a gazebo or beach umbrella to directly block the sun’s heat during outdoor activities such as a BBQ with friends or a pool party. Ensure that you’ve positioned it strategically so that it can directly prevent the sun’s rays from hitting you. This will help combat heat exhaustion and sunburn from being exposed to the sun for long periods. This method is great when paired with other cooling measures.

42. Install an outdoor misting system to cool down patios or gardens.

    If your rugs are super hot then they’ll pass that heat to the walking surface below. Choosing light-coloured rugs means that they don’t absorb as much heat and make walking outdoors more comfortable.

43. Lay down light-coloured outdoor rugs to reduce heat absorption.

    Incandescent light bulbs can increase the heat of a room as most of the energy they produce is heat. Switch to an energy-efficient option like LED lights that barely emit any heat and are far more eco-friendly. With less heat being generated, you don’t have to wonder why your room is still hot.

44. Use a sprinkler on your lawn to cool down outdoor areas temporarily.

    Besides the benefits of watering your lawn, this enables a more pleasant outdoor environment, improving overall comfort.

45. Keep an insulated water bottle with you to stay hydrated during activities.

    An insulated water bottle will keep your water super cool and fresh like the moment you fill it. This is crucial when partaking in outdoor activities, especially physical or fitness activities. These bottles are now widespread meaning you can pick them up from your local grocery store.

46. Place chairs or seating in naturally shaded areas under trees.

    One simple way to beat the heat in Melbourne is to rearrange the seating layout to be out of the sun’s direction. Get creative, and find a shaded spot that provides the relief that your family needs.

47. Install a shade sail over your outdoor entertaining area.

    If you regularly have people over during Melbourne summers, we recommend a quality shade sail which can be purchased from your local Bunnings. A Coolaroo shade sail can block up to 90% of UV lowering the chance of heat-related issues.

48. Create a DIY outdoor cooling fan by attaching a mister to a regular fan.

    This is a practical, DIY cooling hack for those with a bit of creativity. Here’s how you can set this one up for a significant outdoor cooling effect.

    Materials Needed:

    • A normal fan.
    • A misting kit or a hose-end mister nozzle.
    • Zip ties or durable tape to secure the mister.
    • A garden hose to supply water to the mister.

    Steps:

    1. Assemble the Mister:
       • Attach the mister nozzle or tubing to the garden hose as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
    2. Secure the Mister to the Fan:
       • Use zip ties or tape to attach the misting nozzle or tubing around the perimeter of the fan’s front grille.
       • Ensure it’s positioned to spray mist in the same direction as the airflow.
    3. Connect the Water Supply:
       • Attach the other end of the mister to your garden hose.
       • Ensure the water is turned on at a low to moderate flow.
    4. Test the System:
       • Turn on the fan and the water supply simultaneously.
       • Adjust the water pressure and fan speed to create a fine mist that cools the air without creating puddles.
    5. Position the Fan:
       • Place the DIY cooling fan in your desired outdoor area, such as a patio, garden, or deck.
       • Ensure it’s positioned to cover the space where people are gathered.

    This will allow unobstructed airflow and stop your AC from working harder than it needs to, saving you on energy costs.

49. Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective clothing when spending time outside.

    Protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun by wearing hats and clothing that block UV. Wide-brimmed hats can completely cover your head, neck, and shoulders while looking quite stylish. There is also UV-protective clothing that is specifically lightweight and tightly woven to block the UV from hitting your skin. Melbourne’s UV index can be quite high during summer so ensure that you get a good amount of sun and then cover up.

50. Visit air-conditioned public places like malls or libraries during extreme heat.

    Most public places have high-quality air conditioning to help tackle the heat. If you spend your summer doing activities, you’re probably already out and about meaning you can get relief from the heat. If your home doesn’t have an adequate cooling level, the local shopping centre or library can provide your desired comfort. If you’re going to the Australian Open in Melbourne you could also walk through the mist fans which feel amazing.