What To Do if Your Air Conditioner Breaks Down

A woman sitting on a couch uses a paper fan to cool herself off during a summer heat wave. | Aire Serv of North Central Arizona

Stay Cool All Summer in Flagstaff, Sedona, and Beyond

In Northern Arizona, scorching summer temperatures often soar above 100°F, making it crucial for residents to have a reliable and efficient air conditioning system. A broken air conditioner in this sweltering heat can be an absolute disaster, turning your comfortable oasis into an unbearable sauna.

Not only does the oppressive heat make daily activities nearly impossible, but it can also pose serious health risks such as dehydration and heat exhaustion, especially for vulnerable individuals like young children, the elderly, and pets.

As the temperature inside your home steadily rises, the once-cozy retreat turns into a stifling inferno. In such situations, it's crucial to address the issue promptly and efficiently, ensuring your living space remains a sanctuary of comfort amidst the scorching summer heat.

Aire Serv of North Central Arizona, your trusted HVAC service provider in Flagstaff, Sedona, and beyond, has the expertise you need to stay comfortable in your home year-round. With our team at your side, you don’t have to suffer through summer heat waves without air conditioning.

Surviving the Heat: Seven Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool When Your AC Breaks Down

We've all been there - a sweltering summer day, and suddenly, your air conditioner decides to give up on you. As the temperature inside your home climbs, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed. But don't despair! There are several strategies you can employ to keep your home cool and find relief from the heat until your AC is up and running again.

1. Block the Sun

The sun is the primary source of heat in your home during the day. To minimize its effects, close curtains, blinds, and shades on windows that receive direct sunlight. Dark-colored or thermal-backed curtains are particularly effective at blocking heat. Additionally, consider investing in blackout curtains or reflective window film, which can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home.

2. Create a Cross-Breeze

During the night, temperatures often drop, offering a brief respite from the sweltering heat. If it's cooler outside than inside, open windows and doors on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze. This will help circulate fresh air throughout the house and push hot air out.

Using strategically placed fans can also enhance airflow and make your living space more comfortable. For instance, place a box fan in a window to help exhaust hot air and set up oscillating fans in corners to circulate cool air.

3. Minimize Heat-Generating Activities

Certain activities and appliances generate a lot of heat, making your home even hotter. To keep your home as cool as possible, avoid using the oven, stove, dishwasher, and dryer during the hottest parts of the day. Try no-cook meals, like salads and sandwiches, or use an outdoor grill to prepare food. Hang laundry to dry outside or use a drying rack indoors instead of relying on the dryer.

4. Stay Hydrated

When it's hot, your body loses more water through sweat, increasing the risk of dehydration. To stay cool and comfortable, drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration. Eating water-rich fruits and vegetables, like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges, can also help keep you hydrated.

5. Dress for Comfort

Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing can make a significant difference in how you feel during a heatwave. Opt for natural fabrics like cotton and linen, which are better at wicking away moisture and allowing air to circulate around your body. Don't forget to swap out your bedding for lighter materials, too!

6. Make Use of Cooling Accessories

In addition to the tips mentioned above, consider using cooling accessories to help beat the heat. For instance, you can use a damp washcloth or ice pack on your forehead, neck, or wrists to help lower your body temperature. Portable misting fans and personal evaporative coolers can also provide relief from the heat.

Air Conditioning Maintenance and Repairs in Flagstaff and Sedona

While a broken air conditioner on a hot summer day can be incredibly frustrating, there are several ways to keep your home cool and find relief from the heat. Employing these strategies will help you stay comfortable until your AC is repaired. And remember, air conditioning repairs from Aire Serv of North Central Arizona are crucial to ensure your air conditioning system remains reliable and efficient during those scorching summer months.

Our team of highly skilled and experienced technicians is dedicated to providing top-notch service, ensuring your AC system is up and running as efficiently as possible. We understand the importance of prompt and reliable assistance during sweltering Arizona summers, which is why we offer flexible scheduling and timely repairs to minimize your discomfort.

Request an appointment today for reliable air conditioning repairs in Flagstaff, Sedona, and the surrounding areas.