How to Keep Home Cool in Summer: 10 Smart, Affordable Upgrades

Eli Maguire
May 1
2 min read

Updated: May 10

Summer is here—and with forecasts predicting temperatures soaring past 50°C in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, staying cool is no longer just about comfort—it’s about safety.

For homeowners in Illawarra, Kiama, and across the NSW South Coast, the question is clear: how to keep your home cool in summer without breaking the bank?

At EDM Building, we combine local building expertise with proven cooling strategies to help you beat the heat—efficiently, affordably, and sustainably.

The Heat is Real—and It’s Getting Worse

Australia is facing record-breaking summer temperatures—and it's not just uncomfortable, it's dangerous. The University of New South Wales (UNSW), through its High Performance Architecture research cluster, has developed the National Heat Vulnerability Observatory (NaHVO). This project identifies Australia’s most heat-sensitive urban zones and supports smarter, cooler building strategies.

Learn more: UNSW NaHVO – Smart Cool Places (Phase 1)

At EDM Building, we bring these insights to life—helping homeowners implement practical upgrades that reduce heat exposure, improve liveability, and future-proof your property.

Modern beachsite home exterior with pool

10 Practical Ways to Keep Your Home Cooler This Summer

These simple upgrades help reduce heat buildup, lower energy bills, and boost year-round comfort.

UPDGRADE	OUTCOME
Ceiling & Wall Fans	Increases airflow and reduce the need for air conditioning with this cost-effective essential.
Window Shading & Awnings	Stops heat before it enters. Shading blocks harsh sun and keeps interiors cooler.
Misting Systems for Outdoor Areas	Instantly cool patios, decks and gardens—perfect for outdoor entertaining.
Cross-Ventilation Windows	Enhances airflow by adding or repositioning windows to maximise breeze pathways.
Reflective Window Film	Cuts UV and heat without losing natural light or outdoor views.
Sustainable Greenery	Vertical gardens, trees, and plant walls create natural shade and cooler outdoor zones.
Outdoor Shading Structures	Pergolas, shade sails, and umbrellas make alfresco living more comfortable.
Energy-Efficient LED Lighting	Switching to LEDs reduces heat output and saves energy at the same time.
Insulated Curtains & Blinds	Block radiant heat, reduce glare, and insulate key rooms during the hottest part of the day.
Portable Cooling Units	Target specific zones with mobile units—ideal for bedrooms or home offices.

You Don’t Need a Major Renovation To Keep Your Home Cool in Summer

Many of these upgrades are affordable and fast to implement—and they can be tailored to suit your home’s layout, orientation, and usage.

And if you are planning a larger renovation, integrating cooling strategies from the start can significantly enhance energy efficiency and livability.