Melbourne’s weather is famous for being highly temperamental, with four seasons in a day not being unusual. From the freezing cold of winter mornings to the hot heat of summer afternoons, a good heating and cooling system is a necessity for homeowners. Whether you’re building a new home or simply looking to upgrade from your existing system, understanding your options can help you stay comfortable without incurring high power bills. Here’s a guide to the best options for heating and cooling in Melbourne‘s unique climate.
Heating Options to Take Away Melbourne’s Winter Chill
During Melbourne’s winter, temperatures can drop significantly, making it essential to have a reliable heating system. The most popular options for heating are ducted heating, gas log fires, and reverse-cycle air conditioning.
- Ducted Heating: Ideal for larger homes, ducted heating works by circulating warm air through ducts installed in the ceiling or under the floor. It can be zoned, which means you can control the temperature in different rooms, making your home more comfortable and energy efficient. This is an ideal choice for multi-story homes.
- Gas Log Fires: A gas log fire provides heat and a cozy ambience, making it a popular choice for lounges or living areas. Gas log fires are easy to operate, maintain, and are more efficient than traditional wood fires. Their modern designs also add a touch of style to your home.
- Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning: The flexible option, reverse cycle air conditioning, provides both heating and cooling, making it the ideal solution for Melbourne’s volatile climate. Energy-efficient, these systems provide quick heat during the chilly winter months while also helping to cool your home in summer.
Melbourne’s Hot Summers’ Cooling Solutions
By the time the Melbourne summer arrives, air conditioning is essential for a comfortable house. Evaporative cooling, split-system air conditioning, and ducted refrigerated cooling are the best options available for cooling.
- Evaporative Cooling: An excellent option for dry heat, evaporative cooling works by drawing hot air through water-saturated pads, cooling and humidifying the air before it’s circulated throughout the house. It’s a cheap and environmentally friendly option, although it works best in well-ventilated houses.
- Split System Air Conditioning: Suitable for single rooms or small homes, split systems are very energy efficient. These units feature both indoor and outdoor components, providing direct cooling with no ductwork required. Reverse cycle is available in most models, which makes year-round comfort achievable.
- Ducted Refrigerated Cooling: In larger homes, ducted refrigerated cooling systems supply a uniform cool air circulation all over the house. It works by chilling the air and distributing it via ducts. It is a more expensive system, but it delivers consistent comfort and is ideal for multi-story homes.
Conclusion
With Melbourne’s fickle weather, the perfect heating and cooling system is essential to maintain comfort throughout the year. Whether you prefer a ducted heating system, a gas log fire, or a versatile reverse-cycle air conditioner, an energy-efficient system is the key to remaining comfortable without compromising on your energy bills.
