karel: (carlisle ► vampire baseball)
KD ([personal profile] karel) wrote in [community profile] homeeconomics1012011-07-21 10:52 am

cooling question

So I've been looking around Google for this, and it seems like I'm just phrasing things wrong (and that there's too many other things "fan" describes), so I figure that this could be a question that might help others a little too.

My air conditioning recently went out, and while insurance is covering the cost of replacing the unit, it's going to be a few days, and it's Las Vegas in the summer. I have a few fans on my hands, and I was wondering if anyone can recommend placement of them for maximum cooling efficency. I have a big box fan, a mini desk fan, and one on a stand. I've already got the rooms I don't use and don't need to cool all closed up. I also have west-facing windows covered, and since it's a condo in a building, the rest of the windows are pretty well-protected.

Any other general tips for keeping cool in the summer with or without ac?
jenna_thorn: a cowboy hat and Texas flag bedecked Dreamsheep (Texas Dreamsheep)

[personal profile] jenna_thorn 2011-07-21 06:12 pm (UTC)(link)
the keyword is swamp cooler, but basically, you put cool moist air into the stream of air coming at you. Hanging a wet towel (carefully, so it doesn't get caught in moving parts) is the low tech option. there are higher tech plans on the 'net, but I don't know how much energy and time you want to put into it.
Edited (to add the Wikipedia link) 2011-07-21 18:13 (UTC)
zillah975: (Default)

[personal profile] zillah975 2011-07-21 06:17 pm (UTC)(link)
You might want to stop by the gas station or grocery store and pick up a bag or two of their ice. It'll definitely help. :)
rhi: Two fluffy kittens, inside front paws raised.  "It was him.  He did it." (pawpointing by lanning)

[personal profile] rhi 2011-07-21 06:37 pm (UTC)(link)
Even a bowl of ice water between the fan and you would help a lot. Make sure it's a good solid one the cats can't knock over, however. Good luck to you and the cats!!!