How to Stay Cool Without AC While Waiting for HVAC Service

When you think of summer, you think of long days of enjoying the sunshine.

But without an air-conditioned home to cool down in after you’ve been soaking up the sun, the heat can become uncomfortable and even dangerous.

Extreme heat causes 700 deaths per year in the United States, according to the CDC.

So when your AC unit breaks down, it’s important to take measures to keep your home and your family cool. Here are some top tips to help you stay cool without AC while you’re waiting for an HVAC repairman to arrive.

Top Tips to Stay Cool Without AC

When your AC unit breaks down, the very first step is to call Allan & Rogers AC & Refrigeration and schedule your HVAC repair. While you’re waiting, here are some tips for staying cool.

Stay Hydrated

Drink water regularly throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty, to help you stay hydrated. You can even suck on an ice cube to help you cool down while also giving you a few sips of water.

Use Cold Washcloths

Placing cool, damp washcloths on your neck and wrists can help to cool down your body temperature. When you’re struggling to fall asleep in the heat, a cool washcloth can help to get you to a comfortable temperature so that you can drift off to sleep.

Break Out Your Cotton and Linen Clothes

Cotton and linen are the most breathable fabrics that will help to keep you cool on a hot day. Wear loose-fitting styles in these fabrics to help keep the heat away from your body.

Keep the Window Curtain Drawn

If you have any windows with direct sunlight, keep your curtains drawn or close the blinds. Close windows and doors to keep the hot air from entering your home.

Fire Up The Barbecue

Turning on the oven or stove can quickly heat up your kitchen and beyond, so take your cooking outside instead. If you don’t have a barbecue, try preparing something that doesn’t require any cooking, like a fresh salad or sandwich.

Plan a Daytrip

Sometimes it’s just too hot to stay home when your HVAC is broken. And if you don’t have a swimming pool nearby where you can go for a dip, plan a trip to the movies, library, or mall where you can spend the day in the AC.

Keep the Air Circulating

Be sure to turn the fans on when you are stuck at home without AC. Fans can help a room to feel 4 degrees cooler by creating a wind-chill effect that cools down people even without changing the temperature of the room.

Take a Cold Shower

Lower your core body temperate by taking a cold shower. Be sure that you don’t let the water get too hot or it can cause steam that warms up the room.