It is August in the South, which means the temperatures are sweltering and it is the perfect time for your home’s air conditioning to go out. Because of the heat, air conditioning companies may also be booked solid, so it may be a while before you get relief from the heat. Here are some tips for cooling down your home when your air conditioning stops working.
Use Fans Strategically
Ceiling fans and portable fans can be a lifesaver. Make sure ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down. For added relief, place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to circulate cooler air.
Block Out the Sun
Close blinds and curtains to block out the sun and keep your rooms cooler. Consider investing in blackout curtains or reflective window films that can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home.
Open Windows at Night
If the temperature drops during the night, open your windows to let in the cooler air. Just remember to close them early in the morning before the heat sets in.
Stay Low
Heat rises, so the coolest place in your home will be the ground. Consider setting up a temporary sleeping area on the ground floor or even the basement if you have one.
Limit Use of Appliances
Appliances like ovens, stoves, and even some electronics can generate a lot of heat. Opt for meals that don’t require cooking, and unplug electronics that aren’t in use.
Hydrate and Adjust Your Diet
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Eating lighter meals and consuming foods with high water content, like fruits and salads, can also help keep you cool.
Take Cool Showers
A cool shower can help lower your body temperature. Additionally, using peppermint soap or body wash can give your skin a cooling sensation.
Wear Light Clothing
Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable materials like cotton. Avoid dark colors as they can absorb heat.
Create Cross-Ventilation
If you have windows on opposite sides of a room or house, open them to create a cross breeze that can help circulate air and cool down your space.
Insulate Your Home
While this is a more long-term solution, ensuring that your home is well-insulated can help keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This includes sealing gaps and cracks around windows and doors.
Use Plants
Some indoor plants like aloe vera, snake plant, and areca palm can help cool down your home. They not only provide oxygen but also absorb pollutants and take in excess moisture, which can have a cooling effect.
Stay Calm and Relaxed
Engaging in strenuous activities can increase your body temperature. Opt for calm activities like reading or watching a movie. If you must engage in physical activity, try to do it during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening.
While these tips can’t replace the comfort of a working air conditioner, they can certainly help make the heat more bearable. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your health and safety. If the heat becomes unbearable or poses a health risk, consider staying with friends or family who have working air conditioning or visiting public places like libraries or shopping malls to cool down.
