There is absolutely no good time for an air conditioning unit to break. Having an A/C unit malfunction during a mild autumn or spring season is perhaps most ideal, but it is not a bad idea to be prepared, just in case of a breakdown in the sweltering midst of summer. Even though an unfortunate breakdown at the absolute hottest time of the year might feel like the Apocolyptic end of the world, there are some simple ways to keep your cool while you wait for a repairman to get your house back down to its proper temperature.
Drink Cool Drinks
This may seem obvious, but it is an often overlooked way to stay cool. Keep jugs of water in the fridge or freezer if you do not have a water cooler, and chill other drinks with cubes of ice. Staying hydrated is important in and of itself, especially if high temperatures are causing you to sweat. Drinking cool water throughout the day is a good way to keep cool and safe while you wait for an air conditioning repair.
Reduce Activity
Another important way to keep cool and healthy during this time of intense heat is to reduce your activity levels. If you routinely work out at home, this might be a time to take it slow and relax. Overexerting your body when it’s hot can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, so it may be a good idea to use this time as a well-deserved break. When your air conditioning is fixed, you’ll be able to get back on your feet – but until then, lay low and pass the time with low-energy activities such as reading your favorite book or catching up on a captivating TV show.
Lay Low
A less obvious way to make the wait for air conditioning repair more bearable is by laying low – literally. If there’s one thing most people remember from high school physics, it’s that heat rises. This isn’t something to be taken lightly if you’re trying to dodge the heat. If you have an upstairs, now is the time to stay downstairs, because the temperature difference will most likely be noticeable.
Freeze It
While you wait for air conditioning repair, try using your freezer for more than just ice. Cool down overnight by balling up linens and putting them in the freezer for an hour or two before bed.