Cooler home, no aircon—natural solutions that work

If you think this February has been hotter and drier than usual, you’d be right—Auckland’s average temperatures are 0.9°C above normal, and rainfall is just 11% of the typical amount.

This begs the question: How do you stay cool without running the heat pump 24/7? (Air conditioning only cools a home; a heat pump both warms and cools it.)

Most homes can become stifling at this time of year, but before your next renovation, consider how these features can improve your comfort without relying on your heat pump.

1. Design with passive cooling in mind

A builder can configure internal walls and openings to promote natural airflow. Open-plan layouts, breezeways, and high ceilings all help move warm air out and draw cooler air in.

2. Improve ventilation with better airflow

Cross-ventilation is key to keeping a home cool. A builder can optimise window and door placement to encourage airflow, allowing hot air to escape and cooler breezes to circulate. Adding opening skylights, especially in upper storeys, can further help release trapped heat.

3. Install ceiling fans for air movement

Ceiling fans create a cooling breeze and help distribute air effectively. When positioned correctly, they enhance ventilation and make a room feel more comfortable without the energy costs of a heat pump.

4. Use double glazing to regulate temperature

While often associated with keeping homes warm, double glazing also reduces heat transfer in summer, helping maintain a more stable indoor temperature.

5. Add shading solutions

Builders can install adjustable louvres or external shading screens over windows that receive intense afternoon sun. These block direct sunlight while still allowing airflow. Retractable awnings and pergolas with adjustable slats are also effective for shading outdoor areas and reducing heat inside.

6. Improve insulation where it matters

While roof materials won’t significantly affect cooling, proper ceiling insulation helps prevent heat from radiating into living spaces. Insulated walls can also contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment.

7. Consider alternative cooling solutions

For those who don’t like air conditioning, ducted heat pump systems can be used in fan mode to circulate air. Some modern heat pumps also offer cooling without the excessive dryness associated with traditional air conditioners.