Smart Summer Cooling Tips to Beat the Heat Without Blowing Your Budget
When summer hits, keeping your home cool can feel like a balancing act between comfort and cost. Whether you have a split system, ducted setup, or a hybrid unit, a few simple strategies can make a big difference in how efficiently your system performs — and how much you save on your energy bills.
At 1st Choice Heating & Cooling, we help Melbourne homeowners stay comfortable year-round with more innovative cooling solutions and expert maintenance advice.
1. Get Your Air Conditioner Serviced Early
The best time to service your system isn’t when it breaks down — it’s before the heatwave hits. A pre-summer check ensures filters are clean, refrigerant levels are right, and your unit is running efficiently. This can improve cooling performance by up to 15%.
If it’s been a while since your last service, now’s the time to book in with a professional technician.
2. Clean Your Filters and Vents
Dusty filters force your air conditioner to work harder, using more energy for less cooling. Cleaning or replacing filters every 3 months (or at the start of each season) can reduce energy use and extend the life of your system — especially important for split- and ducted-systems.
3. Optimise Airflow with Zoning
If you have a MyAir Zoning System, you can use it. Cooling only the rooms you use is one of the easiest ways to save energy. Set zones for different times of day — for example, bedrooms in the evening and living areas during the day — to maximise comfort without waste.
4. Set the Right Temperature
Each degree below the necessary temperature can increase your energy use by up to 10%. For most homes, setting your air conditioner around 24–25°C is the sweet spot for comfort and efficiency.
5. Keep the Heat Out
Simple tricks can go a long way. Close curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day, and make sure doors and windows are sealed to keep warm air out. If possible, shade your outdoor unit to improve its efficiency.
6. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient System
If your system is older than 10 years, it’s likely costing you more than it should. Modern split, ducted, and hybrid systems are designed with energy efficiency in mind — and with government rebates available, there’s never been a better time to upgrade.
Stay Cool This Summer with 1st Choice
From quick maintenance to complete system upgrades, our team can help you choose the most efficient and cost-effective solution for your home.
📞 Get a quote or book a summer service today and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home this season.