How To Stay Cool When Your AC Breaks in Titusville, FL

Are you wondering how to stay cool when your AC breaks? As the top-rated provider of AC services in Titusville, FL, Altman’s Cooling & Heating gives useful advice and fixes any problems with your cooling system. Whether you live near Enterprise Park or Pine Villa, you deserve to stay safe and comfortable, and we can help.

Utilize the Power of Ceiling and Mobile Fans

While ceiling and portable fans don’t lower the temperature, the increased airflow often makes a room seem five to 10 degrees cooler, depending on other factors. It harnesses the power of your body’s natural evaporative cooling ability and can make the humid subtropical climate in Titusville feel comfortable.

When the temperature drops after the sun sets, open your windows for natural nighttime ventilation. It’s an excellent way to wake up refreshed because people usually sleep better when it’s cool. In the high heat of summer, local temperatures can drop below 70 degrees at night.

Activate a Portable Dehumidifier

Did you know that your air conditioner helps keep the humidity between 30 and 50%? When it breaks, you may notice the moisture levels in the air rise, making even moderate temperatures feel oppressive. It can also make you more vulnerable to health risks like heat exhaustion, skin irritation, and respiratory problems.

Using a dehumidifier is one of the most important heat-reducing techniques in Titusville. While you should consider installing a whole-home model, a couple of portable ones should suffice in an emergency.

Prevent Direct Sunlight and Improve Insulation in Your Titusville Home

If you’re wondering how to stay cool when your AC breaks, block sunlight from streaming through your windows. Direct sunlight can increase the temperature by several degrees, negating all your efforts to stay comfortable. Close the curtains or install solar shades for your windows to make your fans and dehumidifier feel more effective.

You should also block cracks under your door and caulk your windows. Poor insulation can make it easier for hot and humid air to infiltrate your home. 

Drink Water To Stave Off Dehydration

When your air conditioning breaks, you put yourself at risk for heat exhaustion. Indoor temperatures over 80 degrees pose a significant risk, and high humidity can make you sweat more and lose essential fluids and nutrients more quickly. Drinking water consistently helps you avoid a medical emergency, and cold liquid can also help you feel better.

Follow these hydration tips:

• By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already on the brink of dehydration. Drink frequently and set an alarm to take a few sips even when you feel fine.
• Avoid caffeine or alcohol, as both substances can dehydrate you.
• Drink liquids with electrolytes, like sports drinks.
• Stay in the shade to reduce sweating and fluid loss.
• Aim for at least eight cups of water per day.

Avoid Heat-Producing Appliances

If you’re wondering how to stay cool when your AC breaks, avoiding heat-producing appliances is essential. Don’t use the stove or oven, as cooking can warm the home. However, a microwave won’t produce heat, so you can retain that as an option.

Some homeowners are surprised that certain devices can increase the home’s ambient temperature. The dishwasher and dryer are two of the most overlooked culprits, so avoid these, too.

Carefully Select Your Clothing

Your clothing significantly affects how your body perceives hot temperatures. Wear light colors like white or tan, and prioritize loose fits that don’t rub against your skin. Some forms of cotton can breathe well, but you’re better off with nylon, polyester, or jersey.

Prioritize Cooling Activities and Foods

Carefully selecting your activities and the foods you eat can help regulate your body temperature. Opt for cold choices, like smoothies or popsicles, and anything with high water content, like fruit and raw vegetables.

Avoid exercising and other high-energy tasks. Consider the following activities instead:

• Cold showers: Cold showers can lower your body temperature and keep you hydrated. It feels refreshing in high heat.
• Swimming: Consider jumping in the pool. Take a relaxing dip rather than exerting energy by swimming laps.
• Go out: You may enjoy going to a retail outlet or restaurant with ample air conditioning.