Summer in Melbourne is heating up, and for those living in high-rise apartments in the CBD and Docklands, keeping your home cool while keeping energy bills low can be a challenge. With rising energy costs and warmer temperatures, it’s important to take advantage of smart cooling strategies that work for apartment living.
1. Maximise Natural Ventilation & Shading
Apartment buildings in Docklands and the CBD often have floor-to-ceiling windows that can turn your home into a greenhouse. To combat this:
✔ Use block-out curtains or thermal blinds – These prevent heat from entering during the day.
✔ Keep windows open overnight – If your apartment has windows on multiple sides, create cross-ventilation to flush out warm air.
✔ Close balcony doors in the heat of the day – This keeps out the hot air and maintains a stable indoor temperature.
2. Optimise Your Air Conditioning for Efficiency
If your apartment has split-system or ducted air conditioning, it’s crucial to use it smartly to avoid skyrocketing bills:
✔ Set your AC between 22-24°C – Every degree lower adds about 10% to your energy costs.
✔ Use the ‘eco’ or ‘dry’ mode – This reduces humidity, making the room feel cooler without excessive energy use.
✔ Clean air filters regularly – Clogged filters force your AC to work harder, increasing energy consumption.
3. Harness Building Amenities & Smart Cooling Hacks
Many Docklands and CBD apartments come with facilities that can help keep you cool:
✔ Use the pool or gym showers – A quick dip or cool shower can lower your body temperature instantly.
✔ Spend time in communal lounge areas – Many apartment buildings have air-conditioned shared spaces.
✔ Use ceiling fans where available – If your apartment has them, they can improve airflow and reduce the need for AC.
4. Invest in Smart Cooling Gadgets
✔ Smart fans with remote control & scheduling – They create airflow without running the AC constantly.
✔ Portable evaporative coolers – These work well if you don’t have air conditioning and use less energy than AC units.
✔ Window insulation film – Helps block out heat while still allowing natural light into your apartment.
5. Take Advantage of Victorian Energy Rebates
✔ Check the Victorian Energy Upgrades program – This scheme offers discounts on energy-saving appliances, including efficient air conditioners and smart power strips.
✔ Upgrade to energy-efficient LED lighting – Reducing heat output from lights can make a noticeable difference in smaller apartments.
✔ Speak to your building manager – Some apartment complexes may have initiatives to improve energy efficiency in shared areas.
Final Thoughts
Docklands and CBD apartment living offers incredible views and convenience, but summer can present unique cooling challenges. By using smart energy-saving techniques, leveraging apartment amenities, and making small changes to daily habits, you can keep cool without blowing your budget this summer.
