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Tips for Keeping Cool When Your AC Goes Out

The last thing you want is to be left without an air conditioner in the middle of the summer. In addition to rising temperatures, the humidity we experience makes everything worse. AC problems can be particularly frustrating because it can be difficult for the average person to diagnose and solve the issue on their own.

Common air conditioning repair problems can include:

  • Dirty air filters
  • Refrigerant/coolant leaks
  • Frozen evaporator coils
  • Electrical problems
  • Fan failures
  • Ductwork problems
  • Malfunctioning thermostats

But, what do you do when your AC dies? While your first step should be to call Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for repair service, there are a few other things you can do to help keep cool while waiting for your repair appointment. Below we provide a few tips and tricks for keeping cool when your AC goes out. Keep reading to learn more.

Tip #1: Check Your Air Filter

If your AC appears to be running, but you're experiencing reduced airflow or poor cooling performance, you should look at your air filter. Clogged or overly dirty air filters can significantly impact your cooling system's ability to function properly. Many manufacturers recommend changing your air filters every three months, but you may find that you need to change yours more frequently. This is especially the case if you have pets or if you are in a situation where you must run your AC a lot.

Tip #2: Check Your Air Vents/Registers

It is remarkably easy to block or accidentally close your air vents or registers, especially if they are located on the floor. If you are running your AC continuously, and part of your home just won't cool down, it could be because a vent is blocked or closed. Go through your home, check the vents, and make sure they are not obscured by furniture or blocked by some other object.

Tip #3: Check Your Thermostat Settings

With recent advances in smart thermostats, many people have systems that are intuitive and which actively learn your cooling habits and preferences. Many use this learning to self-schedule and to set temperatures. However, these self-learned settings may not be how you actually want your cooling system to operate. For example, one day, you may decide to turn your AC off at 2 pm, and the system will "learn" this, and then start always turning your system off at 2 pm, even when you need it. If your AC isn't cooling effectively, this could be why. Clearing these settings or turning off intuitive features may resolve your issue.

Tip #4: Utilize Fans & Blinds to Keep Cool

If, after troubleshooting, your AC still isn't working, you should do what you can with fans and blinds to keep your home cool while you wait for your repair appointment. Fans can help keep air circulating through your home, making you feel cooler. Similarly, pay attention to the inside and outside temperatures. If the temperature drops outside and is less than the temperature inside your home, open your windows and utilize your fans to move warm air out of your home and cooler air in.

Also, pay attention to the sun's direction and use blinds and curtains to keep it from streaming into and heating up your home. Keeping your home dark during the day and keeping the sun out can make your home feel cooler and prevent the temperature from creeping up throughout the day.

If your AC isn't working, reach out to Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing right away. Our expert technicians can inspect your system, diagnose your issue, and get your AC back up and running in no time.

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