Summer is upon us, and with it comes the challenge of keeping your home cool and comfortable. At MPIRE Properties, we want to ensure that your living space remains a refreshing oasis during these hot months. Here are some practical tips to help you stay cool, understand the limitations of your air conditioner, and know when to call our emergency line versus submitting a maintenance report.
Practical Tips to Keep Your Home Cool
- Close Blinds and Curtains:
- Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly increase indoor temperatures. Close blinds or curtains during the day to keep the heat out.
- Use Fans Strategically:
- Ceiling fans, box fans, and oscillating fans can help circulate air and create a cooling breeze. Make sure ceiling fans are set to rotate counterclockwise to push cool air downward.
- Keep Doors and Windows Closed:
- Keep doors and windows closed when your air conditioner is running to prevent warm air from entering and cool air from escaping.
- Cook Wisely:
- Avoid using the oven or stove during the hottest part of the day. Opt for microwave meals, grilling outdoors, or preparing no-cook dishes.
- Create a Cross Breeze:
- If the temperature drops in the evening and it isn’t excessively humid, shut off the a/c and open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross breeze and let in cooler air.
- Change Air Filter
- A clean air filter helps your system more efficiently cool your home. If you have pets, you may need to change your filter more frequently to keep your air conditioner cool effectively.
Understanding the Limitations of Your Air Conditioner
While your air conditioner works hard to keep your home cool, there are some limitations to be aware of:
- Temperature Differences: Most air conditioners can effectively lower indoor temperatures by about 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit. If it's 100°F outside, your air conditioner likely will only be able to maintain an indoor temperature of around 80-85°F.
- Energy Efficiency: Running your air conditioner continuously at very low temperatures can be costly and may overwork the system. Setting your thermostat to a reasonable temperature (around 75-78°F) can help balance comfort and efficiency.
When to Call Our Emergency Line vs. Submitting a Maintenance Report
It's important to know when an issue requires immediate attention and when it can be addressed through a maintenance report.
Call Our Emergency Line If:
- Your air conditioner stops working entirely during extreme heat.
- You smell gas or notice sparks or smoke coming from any electrical appliance.
- There is a major water leak or flooding in your home.
- You experience a power outage affecting essential appliances.
Submit a Maintenance Report If:
- Your air conditioner is cooling, but not as efficiently as usual.
- There are minor leaks or drips that are contained and not causing significant damage.
- A faucet, toilet, or other non-emergency plumbing fixture is malfunctioning.
- Non-urgent electrical issues, such as a single outlet not working.
For emergencies, please call our emergency line at 620-236-3557 -option 5. For non-urgent maintenance requests, submit a report through our Online Maintenance Portal.
Stay Cool and Comfortable
By following these tips and understanding the capabilities and limitations of your air conditioner, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable home throughout the summer. Remember, MPIRE Properties is here to help – whether it's providing maintenance support or offering guidance on keeping your home in top condition. Stay cool, and have a wonderful summer!
MPIRE Properties has apartments, duplexes, townhomes and single family homes available in Great Bend, Hoisington, Ellinwood, Pratt, Larned, Glasco, Abilene, Sylvan Grove and Russell, Kansas.
