If your AC is acting up and you’ve already tried some basic troubleshooting but can’t figure out the problem, you’ve probably called an HVAC professional. While waiting for the technician, it’s hot and uncomfortable. So, what can you do to stay somewhat cool?
The good news is that at Greater Dayton Furnace & Air Conditioning, we offer 24-hour emergency services. This means that 7 days a week, 365 days a year, we are available around the clock to provide exceptional customer service. In the event of an emergency, we will come to your aid as soon as possible.
In the meantime, here are some practical tips to help keep you and your family cooler while you wait for the technician to arrive.
How to Stay Cool When Your AC Is Broken:
- Set your ceiling fans to turn counterclockwise
- Close all your window treatments and blinds
- Avoid opening exterior doors
- Open your windows at night
- Avoid using heat-inducing appliances
- Create your own temporary “AC”
Set Your Ceiling Fans to Turn Counterclockwise
Typically, ceiling fans are set to rotate clockwise, which helps by pushing air downward to where it can be felt. If your air conditioner breaks, it’s a good idea to switch your ceiling fan to rotate counterclockwise.
Why is that? By spinning counterclockwise, the fan blades lift the air in your room, dispersing it and making the room feel cooler. If you’re unsure where the switch to change the blade direction is, check the base of the ceiling fan. Usually, there’s a switch there. Pressing it will change the direction of the blade’s rotation.
Close All Your Window Treatments and Blinds
While sunlight peeking into your home can be refreshing, it’s not ideal if your air conditioner isn’t working. Be sure to close your blinds or draw your curtains on every window to keep the sun out.
While we’re on the topic, it’s also best to close any open windows. Creating a cross-breeze might sound like a good idea, but during the day, it doesn’t help keep the warm air out of your house.
Avoid Opening Exterior Doors
Similarly, you should also try to avoid opening the exterior doors of your home as much as possible. This includes the front door, back door, basement doors leading outside, and garage door. It might seem inconvenient, but by keeping these doors closed, you significantly reduce the chances of unwanted warm air entering your home.
Open Your Windows at Night
At night, you can open your windows to let in the cooler air. This natural drop in temperature can make your home more comfortable. Just remember to close the windows once again in the morning.
Avoid Using Heat-inducing Appliances
Next, avoid using large heat-producing household appliances, as they will increase your home’s temperature. These appliances include:
- Oven
- Stove
- Dryer
- Dishwasher
Create Your Own Temporary “AC”
We know this last suggestion might seem a bit “creative,” but it can be helpful if you’re really hot. As the saying goes, “Desperate times call for desperate measures!”
Did you know you can make your own personal “AC” with just ice and an electric fan? It might sound funny, but it works. Simply gather ice in a large bowl or container, place it in front of an electric fan, and turn the fan on. This makeshift AC works because the fan blows warm air onto the ice, which cools it down, creating a refreshing breeze. This simple solution can provide some cool relief while you relax and let us handle the hard work!
These tips and solutions can help you stay cool while waiting for your AC to be fixed. Keep in mind, Greater Dayton Furnace & Air Conditioning is always here for you, dedicated to providing the best and most efficient customer service. We’ve got you covered for all your HVAC needs, so don’t hesitate to call us when you need us!
If you haven’t booked an appointment to fix your air conditioner yet, we’d be happy to service your home! Call Greater Dayton Furnace & Air Conditioning today at (937) 412-2939 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
