ARTICLE
The best home cooling systems to beat the heat
Published Nov 11, 2025 • Updated Oct 22, 2026 - 6 min read
The best home cooling system depends on your space, budget and how much cooling power you need, with options ranging from split systems and portable units to fans, evaporative coolers and air purifiers. The article helps you compare the main choices and pick a setup that keeps summer heat under control without overspending.
Key takeaways from this article
Choose the cooling system that suits your room size, budget and comfort needs.
Split systems can be energy efficient and suit smaller apartments well.
Portable air conditioners are handy if you want cooling you can move around.
Clean your air conditioner regularly and use timers to stay comfortable with less waste.
If you’re looking for a way to beat the heat, the best place to start is at home with the right heating and cooling system. From fans to air conditioners, there’s lots of ways to keep cool. If you’re ready to set up a home cooling system or upgrade your current one, keep reading.
Cooling your home during the Australian summer
Different types of cooling systems do different things, so when it comes to picking a home cooling system, it pays to do a little research. Your first thought might be to get an air conditioner, but there are other options for you to consider depending on your needs. Staying cool during a hot Aussie summer doesn’t have to be expensive– there are lots of ways to keep the temperature down without breaking the bank.
What are the different types of home cooling systems?
The best home cooling system is the one that fits your space and budget (and keeps your home at the right temperature no matter what season). Not all cooling systems work in the same way, some purify the air while others take outside air and cool it down.
“Staying cool during a hot Aussie summer doesn’t have to be expensive – there are lots of ways to keep the temperature down without breaking the bank.”
Split Systems
Split systems are a great option to help keep cool this summer. Like the name suggests, a split system has two parts: an exterior unit which draws air from outside into the system, and an interior unit which blows hot or cold air into a room.
If you live in a small apartment, a reverse cycle split system can warm it up or cool it down in no time, keeping you comfortable all year round! Many models have great Energy Rating, as well as clever tech to detect movement in the room to control the temperature and handy energy saving modes.
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Portable Air Conditioners
A portable air conditioner gives you cooling without a permanent installation. That makes it a practical choice if you’re renting, live in an apartment where an outdoor unit isn’t an option, or just want cooling you can move from room to room. You can wheel it into the bedroom at night and the living room during the day, and take it with you when you move. Many models also have dehumidifying and fan-only modes, so the unit can help on humid days as well as hot ones.
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Pedestal Fans
A pedestal fan is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to stay comfortable when the weather warms up. It doesn’t lower the room’s temperature. Instead, it moves air across your skin, which helps you feel cooler. Pedestal fans need no installation: just plug one in and point it where you need it. Their adjustable height and tilt let you aim the airflow at a bed, couch or desk, and many models have oscillation to spread air across the room. When comparing models, look for multiple speed settings, a timer, remote or app control, and a quiet or night mode for bedrooms.
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Ceiling Fans
A ceiling fan circulates air across a whole room without taking up any floor space. That makes it a good fit for bedrooms, living areas and smaller rooms where a pedestal fan might get in the way. In summer, set it to spin anticlockwise (looking up) to push air down and create a cooling breeze. Some models also have a winter setting that gently pushes warm air from the ceiling back down into the room, so you can use the fan all year.
Ceiling fans have lower running costs, making it a great affordable option. Many come with a built-in light, a remote and multiple speed settings. However, do keep in mind a ceiling fan needs to be installed by a licensed electrician, so factor installation into your budget.
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Air Purifiers
An air purifier is designed to support air quality at home by drawing air through a filter that captures airborne particles such as dust, pollen and pet hair. It can be a useful addition in summer, when windows stay shut to keep the heat out and air circulates less. Some models combine purifying with a fan or cooling function, so one appliance can circulate and filter the air.
Many also offer real-time air quality readouts, automatic modes that adjust to the conditions, and app control so you can check and run the purifier remotely. When comparing models, match the purifier to the size of the room, check the filter type and how often it needs replacing, and consider noise levels if it will run in a bedroom.
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How to choose the best home cooling systems for your home
To find the best home cooling system for you, you’ll need to work out what spaces you want to keep cool. This will also help you narrow down your options, as smaller spaces generally require less power and energy to adjust.
Cooling the whole house
You can use a combination of different types of cooling systems throughout your house to maximise your efficiency in cooling and save a little cash on your electricity bill too. Here are a few tips:
If you have ceiling fans, set them to reverse mode so it pushes the warm air downwards.
Add a floor or desktop fan to different rooms to help circulate air when you’re in there.
Close the doors to any unused room to keep cool air in places where you need it.
Cooling one room
You can apply the tips above to any room you want to cool as well. Another tip to utilise is to open your windows at night and take advantage of the cooler air. But for those really, really hot summer days, close all windows and curtains first thing in the morning and set any cooling system to a comfortable (not freezing) temperature.
Tips for preparing for the heat
To help you prepare for the coming hot months, here are our top tips:
Clean your air conditioning unit: It is recommended to clean your split system each year.
Set timers: Get to know your home cooling system’s settings. Set timers to turn on roughly 30 minutes before you wake up each morning and a little after you go to bed at night.
Consider installing ceiling fans: On days that aren’t scorching, a ceiling fan can be enough to keep you cool and get the air flowing nicely.
Explore our entire range of cooling systems
If you’re still weighing up your cooling system options, don't forget to check out our Air Conditioner Buying Guide. Visit The Good Guys in-store or online and shop our great range of cooling appliances. With Click & Collect, delivery and professional installation available, we’ll take care of all the heavy lifting too! All you have you to do is sit back, relax and chill out.
