Air conditioners across Reno-Sparks will be working overtime this week.
But their effect is limited.
A local HVAC company, Sierra Air says A/C can only cool your home by 20 to 25 degrees, compared to outside. If your thermostat is set lower, you’re just overworking your system without a real benefit.
There's another easy way to drop temperatures - you just have to look up.
If your ceiling fan is spinning clockwise, the cooler air is actually getting pushed up away from you.
Most ceiling fans have a switch near the blades to spin it the other way and bring the cold air where it can reach you.
For some, air conditioning is a dream, not a reality. If that's the case, the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada says a public place in your community can be your best resource.
"If your home doesn't have air conditioning or you have a power outage at home, going to a library or a community center or even a shopping mall can help you stay cool during the hottest parts of the day,’ says Bridget Posson, Executive Director, American Red Cross of Northern Nevada.
But if you need to stay home, you're not out of luck.
"Taking a cool shower or a cool bath, even wetting your clothes down, can help you stay cool if you don't have air conditioning,” Posson says.
A/C or no A/C, water will be your best friend this week. Posson recommends about three quarts a day. Mixing some electrolytes in as well will restore the minerals you lose through sweat.
When heat waves are on the way, Posson strongly recommends planning ahead.
“If you see hot temperatures rising for several consecutive days, make sure that you have a plan,” she says. “So having plenty of water on hand.”
Once you've figured out your plan, Posson recommends reaching out to others who may be more vulnerable to the heat.
"Older people, kids, folks that don't have a lot of family or friends,” she says. “Make sure that you're checking in on them, say hi, see if they need anything."
You can take advantage of the cooler air at night by leaving your windows open. During the day, close your blinds to keep the heat wave out.
Extreme heat takes more lives in the u-s every year than all other weather events combined, so you've got to beat the heat, however you do it.
Alin Beane has tips on keeping cool during the heat wave.
