If your AC is currently acting up and you’ve already tried basic troubleshooting steps without success, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. While waiting for the technician, the heat can be quite uncomfortable. So, what can you do to stay somewhat cool in the meantime?
The good news is that at Westerville Air Conditioning & Heating we offer 24-hour emergency services. This means that 7 days a week, 365 days a year, we are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service around the clock. So, in the event of an emergency, you can trust that we will come to your aid promptly.
In the meantime, here are practical tips and solutions to help keep you and your family cool while awaiting your technician’s arrival. Our expertise ensures that you receive effective and professional guidance, making sure your home remains comfortable.
How to Stay Cool When Your AC Is Broken:
- Set Your Ceiling Fans on to Turn Counterclockwise
- Close All Your Window Treatments and Blinds
- Avoid Opening the Exterior Doors of Your Home
- Open Your Windows in the Nighttime
- Refrain from Using Heat-inducing Appliances
- Create Your Own Temporary “AC”
Set Your Ceiling Fans on to Turn Counterclockwise
Generally, ceiling fans are typically set to a clockwise rotation, which is beneficial as it directs the air downward, allowing the cool air to be felt. However, when your air conditioner is malfunctioning, it is advisable to adjust your ceiling fans to a counterclockwise rotation. This adjustment can significantly improve the overall cooling effect in your home.
Why is that? Well, by doing so, the counterclockwise direction of the blades will pull up the air in your room, allowing it to be caught and dispersed, making the room feel cooler. If you’re not sure where the switch on your ceiling fan is to change the blade direction, check the base of the fan. Typically, there is a strategically positioned switch on the base. By pressing this switch, you should be able to successfully change the direction of the blade’s rotation.
Close All Your Window Treatments and Blinds
While sunlight naturally adds a refreshing touch to your home, it can become problematic if your air conditioner is malfunctioning. Direct sunlight streaming through your windows can exacerbate the issue. To maintain a comfortable indoor environment, make it a priority to close your blinds or draw your curtains on every window. This simple step can help regulate your home’s temperature and reduce strain on your cooling system.
While we are on the topic, it is also advisable to close any open windows. Although the idea of creating a cross-breeze may seem beneficial, doing so during the daytime does little to keep the warm air out of your home. For optimal comfort and efficiency, it is essential to manage airflow strategically.
Avoid Opening the Exterior Doors of Your Home
In the same vein, you should also aim to minimize opening the exterior doors of your home. This includes any door leading to the outside, such as your front door, back door, basement doors, or garage door. Although it may seem a bit challenging, avoiding opening these doors will significantly reduce the chances of warm air making its way into your home.
Open Your Windows in the Nighttime
During the nighttime, you should take advantage of the natural decrease in outdoor temperatures by opening your windows. The cooler evening air can provide additional relief and keep your home feeling more comfortable. Just remember, if you do open your windows at night, be sure to close them again in the morning to maintain indoor comfort.
Refrain from Using Heat-inducing Appliances
To maintain a cooler home environment, it’s essential to avoid using large heat-inducing household appliances, as they will only raise your home’s temperature further. These appliances include, but are not limited to:
- Ovens
- Dishwashers
- Clothes dryers
- Stovetops
Create Your Own Temporary “AC”
We understand that this last suggestion might seem somewhat unconventional, but it could be beneficial if you are feeling particularly overheated. As the saying goes, “Desperate times call for desperate measures.” Did you know you can create your own personal “AC” using just two materials? Ice and an electric fan are all you need! Here’s how: gather ice in a large bowl or container, place it directly in front of an electric fan, and turn the fan on. This simple setup can be quite effective, providing a quick and easy cooling solution.
This makeshift version of an AC will be effective because the fan will blow warm air onto the ice, cooling it down to create a refreshing breeze. This ingenious solution will provide you with the cool relief you need. Simply relax and let us handle the rest!
These tips and solutions can assist you in staying cool while waiting for your AC to be fixed. At Westerville Air Conditioning & Heating we are dedicated to providing the best and most efficient customer service. We cover all your HVAC needs, so don’t hesitate to call us when you need us!
If you still have yet to book an appointment to get your air conditioner fixed, we’d love the opportunity to service your home! Call Westerville Air Conditioning & Heating today at (614) 810-0075, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
