How to Stay Cool When Your AC Is Broken in Phoenix, Arizona
Knowing how to stay cool when your AC is broken is more than just a matter of comfort in Phoenix, it’s a matter of safety. Without air conditioning, indoor temperatures can rise quickly, leading to potential health risks like dehydration or heat exhaustion. To help you stay safe while waiting for AC repairs, the HVAC professionals at Wolfgang’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing have compiled a list of effective strategies to help you manage the heat and stay comfortable until your system is restored.
Keep the Sun Out
Natural light may brighten your home, but when your AC is down, sunlight can quickly transform your space into an oven. One of the most important steps in learning how to stay cool when your AC is broken is keeping sunlight out. Close blinds, curtains, or shades during the hottest hours of the day, typically between noon and 5 p.m. to block heat from entering your home.
For even better insulation, consider:
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Installing blackout curtains to block radiant heat.
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Adding reflective window film to reduce sun exposure.
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Using temporary window covers or thick blankets in emergency situations.
While it may seem counterintuitive, avoid opening your windows during the day. Keeping them closed helps prevent hot air from entering your home. Once temperatures drop in the evening, you can open them to let cooler air circulate.
Use Fans Wisely
When your air conditioner isn’t working, fans become your primary cooling tool. Set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise, which pushes cooler air down and helps your skin feel cooler through evaporation. Not sure how to adjust your fan? Look for a small switch on the fan’s motor or consult the manufacturer’s guide.
You can also place portable fans strategically throughout your home to maximize airflow. Point box fans toward windows in the evening to help push hot air out, while using others to circulate cooler night air inside.
Create Cross Ventilation at Night
After sunset, outside temperatures often drop significantly. Take advantage of this by creating cross ventilation:
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Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze.
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Use fans near windows to pull cool air in and push warm air out.
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Close everything back up in the morning to trap the cooler air inside.
This natural method is one of the most effective nighttime strategies when learning how to stay cool when your AC is broken, especially in Arizona’s dry desert climate.
DIY Air Conditioning Tricks
While nothing replaces real air conditioning, a simple DIY method can provide temporary relief:
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Place a large bowl of ice or frozen water bottles in front of a fan.
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As the ice melts, the fan circulates the cooler air throughout the room.
This method won’t lower the overall temperature of your home but can help cool down specific areas like bedrooms or living rooms when you’re desperate for relief. With Wolfgang's, you get peace of mind.
Cool Off with Cold Towels
When the heat feels overwhelming, cooling your body directly can help. Dampen towels with cold water and drape them around your neck, wrists, or forehead. You can also store damp towels in the freezer for 15-30 minutes for an even colder experience.
Keeping a rotation of cold towels handy is a simple yet effective way to lower your body temperature during the hottest parts of the day.
Avoid Using Heat-Generating Appliances
Cooking on the stove or using your oven adds unnecessary heat to your home. Avoid baking, roasting, or boiling water during the day. Instead:
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Grill outdoors.
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Eat cold meals like salads or sandwiches.
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Use small appliances like microwaves sparingly.
Even electronics like computers, TVs, and gaming systems emit heat. Limit usage to keep your home’s temperature as low as possible.
Stay Hydrated and Dress for the Heat
Your body’s natural cooling system, sweating, relies on proper hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your body regulate its internal temperature more efficiently.
Additionally, wear light, breathable clothing. Fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal. Loose-fitting clothes allow better air circulation, keeping you cooler longer.
Stay Cool While You Wait for Repairs
While these strategies provide temporary relief, the best solution is professional AC repair. At Wolfgang’s Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, we understand how critical a working air conditioner is in Phoenix’s extreme climate. Our experienced technicians offer fast, reliable service to restore your home’s comfort as quickly as possible.
If you're struggling with how to stay cool when your AC is broken, or you need emergency air conditioning service, contact our team today. We’ve been helping Phoenix-area homeowners stay safe and cool since 1982, and we’re ready to help you too.
