How to keep your cool and save with solar

With the rising cost of living, keeping cool in summer without breaking the bank can be a balancing act. But there are ways to stay cool without the stress of high energy bills. Here are some tips from our Household Energy Help team. 

Get your house heat-ready: 

The best way to keep energy costs down in summer is to prevent heat from entering your home in the first place. Installing ceiling insulation, sealing drafts, and fixing coverings to windows can make a big difference. To block out sun, install shutters or awnings on external windows, and thick curtains or blinds on internal windows. Focus on windows that face north or west — they get the most sun in the afternoon. 

Start a hot day routine: 

On hot days, keep blinds, doors and windows closed during the day. If the temperature drops in the evening, you can open them for free cooling. Open windows or doors on either side of the house to allow air to pass through the home. 

Prioritise your health: 

Heat stress is a genuine health risk, so don’t put your wellbeing in danger just to save a few dollars – if you have air-conditioning turn it on to avoid overheating. Electric fans are very cheap to run and can be an efficient way to reduce air conditioning time on moderately hot days. Drink plenty of water, and cool down with a damp cloth or cool shower. If you need to, head somewhere air conditioned like a library, shopping centre or movie theatre so you don’t overheat – plan your journey so you can get there and back safely. 

Install solar to power your cooling: 

One way to bring down your energy bills now and in the future is by installing solar at home. On sunny days in summer your air-conditioning costs will be covered (as well as reducing your day-time electric heating bills in winter!). 

To make solar easier, we’ve partnered with not-for-profit energy experts Yarra Energy Foundation to select a reliable installer and products. Through the Hume Solar Roll-Out you can access quality solar systems at an affordable price, as well as receive help to navigate government rebates and loans.  

Council is also offering an additional $700 rebate to concession card holders in Hume who are eligible for the Victorian Government rebate. A limited number of these Council rebates are available. 

To get free solar advice and a no obligation quote, register at humesolarprogram.org.au or call Yarra Energy Foundation on (03) 7036 6040.