Broken Air Conditioning for Apartment Building

The air conditioning hasn’t been working for weeks in the building I live in. The air conditioner broke this Spring just as it was getting warm. The management for the apartment building started looking for a company to replace the air conditioner. It took a while, but they signed a contract to get another air conditioning unit. Unfortunately, it could be 8-12 weeks until they can get the AC unit installed and working.

During this time, it has gotten hot in the apartments. Staying cool is a big problem for many people, not just the people living in my apartment building. In the meantime, I’ve been looking up ways to stay cool this season. When dressing, wear cooler clothes like shorts, short-sleeve shirts, tank tops, and skirts. Avoid wearing black clothes. I suggest you wear a hat and try to wear sandals as well. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Use a cold pack or cold washcloth on your forehead and/or on your neck. Eat cool foods like salads, yogurt, popsicles, ice cream, and cold soup. Avoid heating up the kitchen by not using the oven or the stovetop. When it’s hot out, using the microwave instead is a great way to cook food.

If possible, do chores in the morning or evening as that can help you keep cool. It is recommended to seek out places with air conditioning to spend time at like the library, the mall or other public places. If you’re going out, make sure you have access to water. If you’re sweating a lot due to heat, it’s a good idea to consume some electrolytes. It is better to seek out electrolytes that have low sugar if you can. Avoid drinking alcohol or drinks that contain caffeine since they both can be dehydrating.

I strongly believe that keeping cool in the summer is just as important as keeping warm during the cooler months. Not having access to the ability to cool off can make you sick or can even be deadly. I believe that having the ability to cool off during the warmer months should be a right not just a luxury. I believe this is especially important for all people but especially for young children, the elderly, and the disabled.  Not having access to ways to cool down can make a place unlivable.

I recently had to leave my apartment since I was sick from the heat. I was lucky enough to have family to stay with who have air conditioning. I decided that I needed to get my own air conditioning unit for my apartment in order to be able to live there. I’m concerned about how running the air conditioning will affect my electric bill. I’m hoping it won’t be too high this summer. I can spend less and work more hours though if need be. I’m lucky to have ways to cut costs in other areas compared to others who don’t have this option of spending less since they have a tight budget.

What do you do during the warmer months? Did I mention anything that you use during this time of year?  Did I miss anything that you do to stay cool? I’m wishing everyone a happy and comfortable summer. Stay cool, hydrated, and safe!