My family does not have air conditioning. That’s right. Like half of America, we turned on our air conditioning a week ago only to discover that it’s broken. It’s been in the 80s recently, which is scorching for many Minnesotans like my family. Although it will be repaired within the week, we’ve had to survive about seven days of pure heat. If you are in the same boat, follow these five pieces of advice so that you too can withstand a lack of air conditioning.
1. Turn on as many fans as possible.
This is the simplest way to cool off in a house without air conditioning. The ceiling fan in our family room is perpetually turned on the highest possible setting. It never gets cold. In fact, the family room has become a kind of safe haven for my family. We can watch TV and stay cool at the same time. My mom also bought a new fan for my bedroom which I haven’t turned off in the past 24 hours. Putting a fan in every room of the house seems slightly excessive, but who cares? You’ve gotta do what you’ve gotta do.
2. Open the windows.
A multitude of fans combined with air flowing throughout the house creates a much cooler environment. You might wonder why one would open the windows, but I believe the right question is why not? Your house is already the same temperature as the outside, so you might as well hope for a breeze. If you choose to open the windows, try not to open them all the way. I partially open my windows and pull the blinds over the upper half of them. Thus, the sun shining through the glass won’t heat the house any more.
3. Stay in the basement.
Various members of my family have recently been sleeping in the basement. As hot air rises, it’s typically five to ten degrees cooler in the basement than in the rest of the house. Settling in the basement (and, if possible, setting up a fan) can make it easier to withstand a lack of air conditioning.
4. Stay hydrated.
This is crucial at any time of year, but it especially reigns true during the summer. Drinking water, lemonade, or iced tea can improve your summer heat conditions. I carry a water bottle with me wherever I go. Not only can it keep you cool, but it’s also an important way to stay healthy. In addition, go to a swimming pool if you can. Any way of beating the heat and staying out of your house will keep your mind off your lack of air conditioning.
5. Go somewhere else!
Last night my family went to our neighbors’ house. They have air conditioning. We escaped the heat of our house and managed to have a fantastic time with our friends. We ate pizza, talked for hours, and laughed immensely. Head over to a friend’s house. Go to the movie theater. Go bowling. Go to the mall. Simply getting out of your own abode will alleviate your pain.
I’m greatly anticipating the day when my family’s air conditioning will be restored. But until then, I’ll have to survive the 80 degree Minnesota heat. These tips and a few extra ones from wikiHow can help you withstand a lack of air conditioning.