We all know how intense an Austin summer can be — and that’s with cool AC we can retreat to when we’re tired of the sun! If you’ve ever experienced a blackout, you know how quickly your home can heat up. Not only can it become miserable, it’s dangerous to weather a Texas power outage with no AC.
That’s why Champion AC & Plumbing is here to help. When you don’t have the frosty power of your AC, try out these alternative cooling methods to keep your internal temperature safe and healthy until your power is restored.
It’s All About Heat. Stay Away From It!
When you are trying to keep as cool as possible, the main thing you want to avoid is producing heat and suffering in heat. As soon as your power shuts off, force yourself to think critically about your heat production so that you can last the entire blackout comfortably.
Eat Strategically
Just the act of eating produces heat through the process of digestion. On regular days, this heat is minimal because you have AC and other ways to help your body stay cool. But without this extra cooling, your body needs all the help it can get to stay safe. Avoid eating large meals during the hottest hours of the day. If you can, don’t eat spicy or warm foods either. Snacking is your best bet to keep your body from overheating.
Cook Sparingly
You may have access to a camp stove or grill you want to cook on, but keep two things in mind. Only consume warm foods if you’re confident your body is cool, and always use these cooking appliances outside. You don’t want to add that heat to your indoor areas.
Spend Time Downstairs
The number one rule is that hot air rises. This means that second stories on homes will warm up really quickly. Gather the belongings you need from upstairs and move downstairs until the power returns. This will help keep you as cool as possible, even in the face of rising temperatures.
Keep Yourself Cool
Your body has natural processes to regulate internal temperature and stay cool, but you will likely struggle as time passes without power. Try to help your body remain at safe temperatures to avoid illness and discomfort.
Wear Cooler Clothes
No, we don’t want you to be more fashionable! Shed as many layers of clothing as you can when the power is out. Your body needs as much exposure to the air as possible to efficiently sweat and cool. This is how your body regulates temperature, so help it out!
Avoid Sunlight
Not only does direct sunlight heat your body quickly, but it can also heat specific rooms in your home faster than others. Rooms with exterior walls will heat faster over time than interior rooms. If you have a complete interior space in your home, it’s likely to remain cooler there longer.
Use Your Water!
Water is the key. You need to stay hydrated — especially with no AC and a warming home. Keeping water on hand is important in case your water source is shut off or disrupted. Water is also important for washing and keeping yourself cool. Remember to use the wind chill of water on your skin to stay cool. Try misting yourself with a spray bottle, soaking your hands and feet in water or soaking your hair and letting it air dry.
Your AC Care After A Blackout
If you notice any problems with your AC’s performance after it has experienced a blackout, don’t suffer any more than you already have! Count on the team at Champion AC & Plumbing to be prompt and thorough when it comes to evaluating and repairing your AC. Contact us today for all your AC needs!
