How to Stay Cool When Your Air Conditioner Stops Working

Air conditioners often fail at the worst time. Your air conditioner may work fine throughout the year. When the middle of summer arrives, though, it may fail to cool your home. Temperatures, of course, can quickly rise during this time of year. And without air conditioning, you can expect a brutally hot and uncomfortable home. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to stay cool when your air conditioner stops working.

Run the Fan

Even if your air conditioner doesn't work, the fan may continue to work. All air conditioners have a fan. You can control the fan at the thermostat. There should be an "AUTO" setting, as well as an "ON" setting, displayed on the thermostat. Choosing the latter setting will turn on the fan so that it circulates air throughout your home.

Open the Windows

Opening the windows can make your home a little cooler when your air conditioner stops working. Leaving the windows closed means that heat will accumulate inside of your home. Without anywhere to escape, heat will continue to build up while creating a warmer living space. A simple solution is to open the windows. It won't necessarily create cool air, but opening the windows will allow the hot and stagnant air to escape your home. The end result is a cooler and more tolerable living space.

Use Ice

In extreme heat, you may want to use cool to stay cool when your air conditioner stops working. Just fill a small bowl with ice cubes and place it in front of a portable fan. As the portable fan blows air over the ice cubes, it will become cooler. This cool air will then circulate throughout your home to create a cooler living space.

Dress Smart

You should choose your clothes wisely if when your air conditioner stops working. Avoid wearing clothes made of heavy fabrics like wool. Instead, choose lightweight clothes made of either cotton or linen. You should also consider wearing short-sleeve shirts and shorts. This summer attire will help you beat the heat.

Get It Repaired

You should ultimately get your air conditioner repaired if it's not working. Maybe your air conditioner is out of refrigerant, or perhaps the blower motor is blown. Regardless, you'll need to get it fixed. Otherwise, it won't be able to cool your home.