Knowing how to stay cool when your AC is broken is more than a matter of comfort – it is a matter of safety. To avoid suffering in the heat while you wait for your AC repairs in Phoenix, the HVAC professionals at Wolfgangs have compiled a list of effective strategies for beating the heat while your AC isn’t functioning.
Keep the Sun Out
While the beauty of natural light can enhance your home’s ambiance, too much of it when your AC is out can turn your home into an oven. To prevent this from happening, close your blinds or draw the curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun and reduce indoor temperatures. While you may be tempted to open your windows during the hottest parts of the day, it is actually more effective to close them and keep warm air out of your home.
Use Fans Wisely
When your AC is down, fans are your next best bet for staying cool. Make sure your ceiling fans are set to rotate counterclockwise, as this helps them push cool air downwards, making the room feel cooler. If you are unsure of how to change your fan’s direction, check for a switch on the fan’s body or consult the manual.
Create Cross Ventilation
Take advantage of low evening and nighttime temperatures by opening windows on opposite sides of your home. This creates a cross-breeze that pushes hot air out and pulls cooler air in. Remember to close your windows as the sun comes up to trap the cooler air inside.
DIY Air Conditioning
Although it’s not a permanent solution, creating a makeshift air conditioner with a fan and ice can provide temporary relief. Begin by placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan. As the ice melts, it will cool the air around it. This cool air is then distributed throughout the room by the fan, providing temporary relief from the heat.
Stay Cool with Cold Towels
To quickly lower your body temperature, dampen towels with cold water. Keep one around your neck and another in the freezer to swap out as needed. This method provides immediate relief and can be especially refreshing during the hottest parts of the day.
Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances
Use of ovens, stoves, and other heat-generating appliances as little as possible. Also try to limit your use of computers and gaming systems, which can emit a surprising amount of heat.
Stay Hydrated and Dress for the Temperature
Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing will help your body stay cool. Fabrics like cotton are ideal as they allow more air to circulate around your skin. Remember to stay hydrated so your body can regulate its temperature as effectively as possible.
Call Wolfgangs for Phoenix AC Repair
While these tips can provide temporary relief, the best solution is to restore your AC system to working order. At Wolfgangs Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, we have provided residents of Phoenix and the surrounding areas with reliable air conditioning services for many years, including emergency service. Call us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians.
