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 have found yourself dealing with a malfunctioning AC, we understand how frustrating this can be. It’s likely you’ve already contacted a professional and are awaiting their arrival. The heat can be relentless, and we recognize the urgency of your situation. Bexley Heating & Cooling offers 24/7 emergency services, ensuring that we will get to your aid as swiftly as possible. 

While waiting for your technician to arrive, you might wonder how to stay comfortable in the meantime. A broken AC can indeed seem like an overwhelming issue, but there’s no need to worry. You don’t have to “sweat” it—pun intended! Here are several creative measures you can take to keep your home as comfortable as possible.  

How to Stay Cool with a Broken AC: 

  1. Switch Your Ceiling Fans to Counterclockwise 
  1. Draw Your Blinds and Drapes 
  1. Limit Opening Your Home’s Exterior Doors 
  1. Crack Open Your Windows at Night 
  1. Steer Clear of Heat-Generating Appliances 
  1. Get Creative with a DIY AC 

Switch Your Ceiling Fans to Counterclockwise – Generally, ceiling fans are set to rotate clockwise, which pushes air downward, giving you that extra bit of coolness. When your air conditioner isn’t working, it’s advisable to switch your ceiling fans to the counterclockwise setting. This adjustment will pull up any lingering cool air and disperse it around the room, making the environment more bearable. 

If you need to locate the switch to change this setting, check the base of the mounted fixture on the ceiling. Often, switches are strategically positioned on the fan’s base. 

Draw Your Blinds and Drapes – While sunlight can be pleasant, it’s not the best option for keeping you cool when your AC isn’t functioning. To maintain a cooler home during this time, draw your curtains, close your window treatments, and shut your blinds. This simple adjustment can effectively help keep your home feeling cooler. 

Limit Opening Your Home’s Exterior Doors – Additionally, you should aim to minimize the use of exterior doors. Each time they are opened, warm air enters, contributing to the heat inside your home. 

Crack Open Your Windows at Night – Alternatively, if it is nighttime, consider opening your windows. The cooler evening temperatures can bring in a refreshing breeze, enhancing your comfort. 

Steer Clear of Heat-Generating Appliances – It’s important to remember that heat-generating appliances like ovens, stoves, dryers, and dishwashers produce significant heat. While waiting, refrain from using these until your AC is back up and running. 

Get Creative with a DIY AC – If you’re feeling adventurous and seeking an extra way to stay cool, consider creating your own makeshift AC using ice and an electric fan. This straightforward hack can offer some relief from the heat. Do this by simply placing a large bowl of ice in front of an electric fan. As the fan blows air over the chilled ice, you can sit in front of this setup and experience a more comfortable environment. Give it a try and enjoy a bit of cooling comfort while you wait! 

These reliable tips could be your saving grace while you wait for your AC to be fixed. Don’t forget that we are always here for you! At Bexley Heating & Cooling, we are always ready to assist you 24/7 with anything emergency-related. 

Give us a call and experience the industry’s best products and services. Call us today at  (614) 924-7856, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!