It's hot outside! If you're like most Texans, you're probably looking for ways to beat the heat and stay safe. Here are some tips to help you get through a Texas heat wave without breaking a sweat.
Stay Inside
First, try to stay indoors as much as possible. If you have to go outside, make sure to wear loose, cool clothing. If you can, avoid being in the direct sun for too long. If you don’t have AC at home, we recommend heading to the movies, mall, library, or another air-conditioned place to get away from the heat for a while.
Drink Lots of Water
It's essential to stay hydrated, especially during high temperatures! Drink lots of water, even if you're not thirsty, as staying hydrated will help regulate your body temperature. Try to avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeine, which can all dehydrate you.
Postpone Workouts, Sports, and Yardwork
If you can, try to postpone any strenuous activity until the cooler hours of the day or evening. This includes things like working out, playing sports, mowing the lawn, gardening, etc. Not only will this keep you cooler, so that you'll rely less on your AC, but it will also help you stay hydrated longer and prevent heatstroke.
Turn Off Unnecessary Lights and Appliances
Another way to stay cool is to turn off any lights and appliances in your home that you’re not using. These can generate heat and make your home feel even hotter.
Set Your Thermostat to 78 Degrees
One of the most important things you can do during a heat wave is to set your thermostat to 78 degrees at the lowest. This will help reduce the strain on your air conditioner, while still keeping your home relatively cool and comfortable compared to the inferno outdoors.
Use Fans Wisely
Another way to stay cool is to use fans in the rooms you’re occupying. If possible, set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise, which will push cool air down from the ceiling. And if you have floor fans, point them towards the walls so that they create a cross breeze in your home.
Close Your Window Coverings
Make sure to keep your curtains, drapes, and blinds closed during the day. This will help keep the sun's rays out and prevent your home from heating up.
Get Your Air Conditioner Tuned Up Ahead of Time
When it comes to heat waves in the Lone Star State, it's not a matter of "if" one will happen, but "when." If you have an air conditioner, make sure it's in good working condition by getting it maintained in advance. That will give it a much better chance of surviving an extended period of severely hot weather.
Remember, Heat Kills
Extreme heat should not be taken lightly: it takes more U.S. lives per year than any other weather phenomenon. If you start to feel overheated or dizzy, seek medical attention immediately. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions that can be life-threatening.
At Rescue Air and Plumbing, we are fast and fair with your repair! If your air conditioner isn’t working in your Dallas-Fort Worth Metro home, call us today at (972) 201-3253!