How to Cool Your House if Your AC Breaks Down
An unexpected air conditioning breakdown during a sizzling summer can feel like a true nightmare. But don’t sweat it (literally)! You can still stay cool and comfortable at home by using a few smart and effective strategies. This blog will guide you through practical steps to cool your house even when your AC isn’t working, as well as how to avoid future cooling emergencies.
Whether you're hoping to create a temporary fix or searching for reliable AC supplies in Central Florida, we’ve got you covered.
Block the Heat Out
1. Close Your Curtains and Blinds
Sunlight streaming through your windows may brighten your space, but it also drastically increases indoor temperature. Prevent heat buildup by closing your curtains, blinds, or shades, particularly on sun-facing windows. Blackout curtains work especially well to block the sun's rays and reduce heat from entering your home.
2. Use Reflective Window Covers
If you don’t have blackout curtains, consider using reflective window covers, like aluminum foil or reflective film, to bounce sunlight away from your windows. Even temporary DIY solutions can help keep your indoor spaces cooler.
3. Shut Unused Rooms
Keep doors closed to unused rooms to seal off heat-prone areas and funnel airflow to heavily-used parts of your home. Rooms that are exposed to direct sunlight should also remain closed when possible to minimize heat transfer.
Maximize Airflow
4. Turn On Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are excellent tools for circulating the air in your home. If possible, set the fans to spin counterclockwise to push air down and create a cooling breeze. This simple trick will amplify the cooling effect even in the absence of AC.
5. Strategically Place Standalone Fans
Position box or oscillating fans in key locations to promote air circulation. For an extra cooling boost, place a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles in front of the fan. This trick helps disperse cooler air throughout the room while also providing relief from the heat.
6. Create Cross Ventilation
Open windows on opposite sides of your house to create a natural cross breeze. Cool evening or early morning air is particularly effective for ventilating your home. Use fans to help funnel the fresh air through the rooms you spend the most time in.
Reduce Indoor Heat Sources
7. Skip Heat-Producing Appliances
When the AC shuts down, avoid using appliances that generate excess heat, such as ovens, stoves, or clothes dryers. Opt for no-cook meals like salads or sandwiches instead. Need a hot meal? Consider firing up the grill outdoors!
8. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs produce heat, so reducing their use can help cool your home. Consider switching to LED bulbs, which produce significantly less heat and are far more energy efficient.
9. Turn Off Electronics
Electronics and chargers emit heat while in use. Power down devices when not in use to reduce indoor temperatures while conserving energy.
Stay Cool on a Personal Level
10. Wear Breathable Clothing
Swap heavy, heat-retaining fabrics for lightweight, breathable materials like cotton or linen to keep yourself cooler. Loose-fitting clothes allow for better airflow and reduce heat retention.
11. Stay Hydrated
Your body’s natural cooling system relies heavily on hydration. Drink plenty of water to stay cool and refreshed, and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate you.
12. Take a Cool Shower
A quick cool rinse can do wonders to decrease your body temperature. Alternatively, soak your feet or apply a cold towel to pulse points on your neck or wrists for quick relief.
Prepare for the Unexpected
13. Invest in a Backup Cooling System
It’s always smart to have an affordable backup plan in the event your AC system fails. Consider purchasing portable air conditioners or window units. These are readily available through reliable AC supplies in Central Florida retailers, including Discount Air Supply, which offers high-quality equipment to fit your specific needs.
14. Schedule Regular AC Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid the headache of a broken AC is to keep your system in tip-top shape with routine maintenance. Changing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and cleaning the coils are just a few ways to ensure your AC operates efficiently.
15. Be Prepared for Repairs
When worst comes to worst, identify a reliable source early on for AC repairs and parts. Discount Air Supply specializes in offering premium AC supplies in Central Florida. Whether it’s replacement parts, filters, or backup units, we have everything you need to bring your system back online quickly.
Don’t Get Caught Without Reliable AC Supplies
There’s no denying that a functioning AC unit is essential for staying cool and comfortable during hot Florida summers. But with these practical tips, you'll have what you need to manage until help arrives.
Need help fixing your system or upgrading your cooling options? Contact Discount Air Supply today for high-quality AC supplies in Central Florida. Our expert team can guide you in finding the right equipment to keep your home comfortable year-round.