Technology Tuesdays: How to Cool Off with No AC

Hello Partners!

We all know the scenario: it is the middle of summer and the middle of the hottest temperature streak in recent memory. You hear a strange noise coming from your air conditioning unit just before it starts blowing what feels like warm air. Without a doubt, your AC has decided to take an unscheduled hiatus during the time you need it the most! Not to mention the other compounding issues with getting it repaired. For example, HVAC companies are in the height of their season and may be back logged, appliance parts are difficult to come by due to supply-chain issues, and many other unforeseen obstacles.

Your situation may not be quite that dramatic. You may just have received yet another Smart Day notification from your utility provider and are wondering what you can do to take advantage of those lower rates or simply how to avoid the higher rates during peaks times. Here are some things you can do, in either situation, to stay cool on the hottest of days:

Use ice to cool the room
We all know that fans are very effective at keeping us cool during the summer months. However, if indoor temperatures reach an excess of 90 degrees (higher than normal body temperature) fans are no longer effective. Place a block of ice on a baking dish and put the dish in front of a fan. The cooling effect from the ice will increase the cooling effect of the fan and help to make the room more comfortable faster.

Reduce heat transfer from outside
There is a very delicate balance for all buildings when it concerns the amount of outdoor lighting to allow inside in the interest of saving energy. However, in the event you need to cool a space quickly, the best way to do so is to make the room as dark as possible. Natural light from outside is always coupled with heat. Be sure to draw the shades or install thick, dark curtains wherever possible to block out incoming sunlight. If possible, use curtains that have a white or a reflective backing to ensure light and heat is reflected away from the window.

Reduce the amount of heat generated inside
Reducing indoor heat can be a challenge. A good place to start is to avoid using appliances during the daytime. Appliances, especially cooking appliances, generate heat that will raise the indoor temperature. Try cooking outside or using a microwave to heat food.

Use preventative measures for AC repair and maintenance
The best repair and maintenance plan is one that catches issues before they become major problems. Have your AC unit serviced twice every year to ensure it is in optimal working condition. Once in the spring before temperatures begin to soar and once in the fall before you switch to using your heater.

The savings never stop!

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Sources:
https://www.aireserv.com/about/blog/2017/june/quickly-cool-your-house-if-your-ac-breaks/
https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-environment/2017/08/05/z-what-do-if-your-air-conditioning-breaks-middle-summer/518872001/