Home ownership is one of the most rewarding milestones of life. But, it can be expensive, time-consuming, and responsibility-laden.  The endless list of chores can seem overwhelming. Inevitably, something is forgotten and something breaks down. It happens to all of us. Unfortunately, your air conditioner seems to break down at the most inappropriate time – right in the middle of summer and on the hottest day of the year.  Heating and air conditioning companies are busy, and you may not be able to have your A/C serviced for a few days. Is it just bad luck? Is your air conditioner out to get you? Of course it’s not! Air conditioners are most likely to stop working when they’re working the hardest – which is when you need them the most! What can you do to keep cool when your air conditioner goes out?  First Choice Heating & Air Conditioning has great tips, so read on!

Cool Yourself Down

When your air conditioner stops working, first think of all the ways you can cool yourself down rather than your home. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing and drink plenty of water. You can put a towel under cold water, wring it out, and then wrap it around your neck. Wear it around your neck for a while. If you’d rather put an ice pack around your neck, you’ll probably want to wrap it in a washcloth or towel so it’s not to cold on your skin.

Use Fans in your Fredericksburg home

Turn on your ceiling fans and place portable fans throughout the house. A nice breeze can go a long way in cooling you off.

Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances

The oven, dryer, and dishwasher create a lot of heat that warms your house every time you use them. Use your grill for cooking or think of eating foods that are served cold. A cool salad is much better than a hot bowl of soup when you’re hot. Instead of using the dryer or dishwasher, air-dry both your laundry and your dishes.

Keep Out the Sun and Humidity

Close your windows and blinds. Direct sunlight is a great way to heat up your home, and this is the last thing you want to do when the A/C is out. You may be tempted to open windows to let in some fresh air, but you’ll also be letting in the wet humidity of summer.  If the nights are cooler and drier, go ahead and open the windows but only at night.

Consider Buying or Renting a Portable A/C Unit

If you know you might be without air conditioning for a few days, consider purchasing or renting a portable air conditioning unit. They range in price depending on their size and capabilities.  If you’re looking for an inexpensive fix, you could purchase a mini portable air unit that cools your personal space. It may help you get a better night’s sleep.

Keep up the Regular Maintenance on your A/C in Fredericksburg

Keep to a regular maintenance schedule. It’s the best prevention for costly repairs and unexpected replacements. Make sure your air conditioner is serviced every year, especially before the hot weather gets here.  Your A/C is just like your car. You wouldn’t take a long trip across the country without having it serviced first, would you? So contact us now to schedule. Your certified technician from First Choice Heating & Air Conditioning is trained to find the problem before it becomes a problem.