How to Stay Cool with a Broken AC

Jul 1, 2024 | How To, AC, Air Conditioner, Blinds, Broken, Ceiling Fans, Cool, Cool Air, Exterior Doors, Summer, Warm Air, Windows

If you’re dealing with a malfunctioning AC, we understand how frustrating that can be. By now, you’ve already called a professional and are waiting for the technician to arrive. We know the heat can be relentless and how serious the situation is. Rest assured, with Centerville Heating & Cooling‘s 24/7 emergency services, we’ll get to you as soon as possible! 

What should you do in the meantime? A broken AC can make staying comfortable seem impossible. But don’t worry! A broken AC doesn’t mean you have to lose your cool. While you wait for your technician, there are several creative measures you can use to keep your home as comfortable as possible. 

Tips on how to stay When Your AC is Down: 

Set your ceiling fans counterclockwise 

Close your blinds and drapes 

Limit opening exterior doors 

Open your windows at night 

Avoid using heat-generating appliances 

Try making a DIY AC 

Set your ceiling fans counterclockwise 

Ceiling fans are usually set to rotate clockwise, which pushes the air downward and makes you feel cooler. However, when your air conditioner isn’t working, you should try switching your ceiling fans to counterclockwise. This pulls up cool air and spreads it around the room, making it more comfortable. To find the switch for this setting, check the base of the mounted fixture on the ceiling. It’s often located there. 

Close your blinds and drapes 

Sunlight is pleasant, and we all love it. But when your AC isn’t working, it won’t help keep you cool. Instead, close your curtains and blinds to block the sun out from your home temporarily. This simple step can help keep your home cooler while waiting for your technician to arrive. 

Limit opening exterior doors 

Also, if possible, try to minimize using exterior doors. Opening them frequently will let warm air in and any remaining cool air out, which will only add to the heat inside your home. 

Open your windows at night 

However, if it’s nighttime, you can open your windows to let in the cooler air. The drop in temperature will bring a refreshing breeze, making you more comfortable. 

Avoid using heat-generating appliances 

Remember that heat-generating appliances like the oven, stove, dryer, and dishwasher produce a lot of heat. So, while you’re waiting for your AC to get back up and running, you should also avoid using these until your AC is working again. 

Try making a DIY AC 

If you’re feeling adventurous and need a way to stay cool, you can make a DIY AC with some ice and an electric fan. It might sound strange, but this simple trick can help provide some relief from the heat. Just place a large bowl of ice in front of an electric fan. The air from the fan will blow over the ice, creating a cooling effect. Sit in front of this setup and hopefully feel a bit more comfortable! 

These proven tips can help you while you wait for your AC to be fixed. Remember, at Centerville Heating & Cooling, we’re available 24/7. Whatever your HVAC needs, we’re here to help. Call us today at (937) 353-1169, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!