Keep Your Apartment Cooler During Extreme Heat

When temperatures rise, these simple tips can help keep your apartment more

comfortable.

Quick Tips at a glance:

Help Your Apartment Stay Cooler

Block Direct Sunlight

Keep blinds and curtains closed on windows that receive direct sunlight, especially between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM. If your apartment has south- or west-facing windows, blackout curtains can help reduce heat from the sun.

Keep Cool Air Inside

Keep exterior doors and windows closed to prevent hot outdoor air from entering your apartment. Try to avoid frequent trips in and out, as each time the door opens, conditioned air escapes while hot air enters.

Set Your Thermostat Wisely

During periods of extreme heat, consider leaving your thermostat set no lower than 74°F during the day. This helps your air conditioning system operate more efficiently while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

Improve Air Circulation

Use ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate cool air throughout your apartment. Remember that fans cool people—not rooms—so turn them off when you leave.

Leave interior doors open whenever possible to help cool air circulate throughout your home.

Reduce Indoor Heat

Limit the use of ovens, stoves, clothes dryers, and dishwashers during the hottest part of the day. If possible, cook during the morning or evening, or use a microwave, slow cooker, or outdoor grill.

Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics when they aren't being used, as they also generate heat indoors.

Help Your AC Work Efficiently

Keep furniture, rugs, and curtains away from air vents so air can flow freely.

If your apartment has a replaceable air filter, replace or report a dirty filter when applicable. Clean filters help your air conditioner operate more efficiently.

What to Expect During a Heat Wave

When outdoor temperatures exceed 100°F, most residential air conditioning systems are designed to maintain indoor temperatures approximately 15–20°F cooler than the outdoor temperature.

During the hottest afternoon hours, your air conditioner may run continuously and cool more slowly until outdoor temperatures begin to decrease later in the evening. This is often normal during periods of extreme heat.

Important Safety Reminders

Protect Your Pets

Never leave pets on patios or balconies during periods of extreme heat. Even with water available, extreme temperatures can quickly become dangerous. Water bowls can also be accidentally tipped over, leaving pets without access to water for extended periods.

Prevent Electrical Hazards

Avoid plugging multiple fans or cooling devices into the same outlet or power strip. Overloading electrical outlets can create a fire hazard.

Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and check on neighbors who may need assistance.

When to Contact the Leasing Office

Please contact the leasing office if:

• Your air conditioner is not running.

• Warm air is coming from your vents.

• There is water leaking from your AC unit.

• Your thermostat continues to rise well above the expected range after following the recommendations above.

Our maintenance team is here to help and appreciates your patience during periods of extreme heat when service requests may be higher than normal.