Can’t Replace Your AC Right Now? Here’s How to Make It Through the Summer Without Melting
So your air conditioner is acting up—or maybe it’s already down for the count. And replacing it? Not in the cards right now. Whether it’s the budget, the timing, or the sheer hassle of a new install, you’ve decided to hold off.
That’s fine. Is it ideal? No. But you’ve got options. Here are a few real-world alternatives that can help you limp through summer without completely losing your cool (literally or figuratively).
1. Get a Legitimate Diagnosis
Before you write off your system entirely, have a qualified tech give it a proper once-over. Sometimes a “dead” system just needs a new capacitor or contactor—$150 fix, not $6,000.
Too many people are told they need a full replacement when their system could’ve been patched up for another season or two. It’s worth $80–$150 for a real diagnosis from someone who isn’t trying to sell you a whole new system on the spot.
2. Use Window Units or Portable AC as a Backup Plan
No shame in the old-school approach. A decent window unit ($250–$400) or a portable AC can cool a bedroom or main living space well enough to make sleep bearable.
Just make sure your electrical panel can handle the extra draw—especially if you’re plugging in more than one.
3. Run Ceiling Fans (The Right Way)
Set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in summer. This creates a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler without lowering the actual room temperature.
A good ceiling fan can make an 80-degree room feel like 74, and they cost pennies per hour to run.
4. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Even if your system is struggling, a programmable thermostat can give it some breathing room. Let the temp rise while you’re out of the house, then cool things off gradually before you return.
This reduces overall runtime hours, which might buy your system enough slack to survive the season.
5. Seal Up Air Leaks
This one’s boring but effective. Drafty doors, attic access hatches, leaky ductwork—these all make your system work harder than it should. Sealing them up helps keep the cold air in and the hot air out.
In older homes, this can make a bigger difference than you’d expect.
6. Replace the Filter (and Maybe Downsize It)
A dirty or overly thick filter is like asking your AC to breathe through a pillow. If you haven’t changed it in a while, do that first.
If you’re at high elevation, avoid high-MERV filters or thick 4”+ filters unless your system was built for them.
7. Shade the Unit, Shade the House
If your outdoor condenser is sitting in full sun all day, it’s cooking. A simple awning or shade structure (without blocking airflow) can lower coil temps and improve performance.
Inside, close the blinds during the day. Yes, even if it makes your living room look like a cave. Solar gain is real.
8. Evaporative Cooling (If It Works in Your Climate)
If you live in a dry climate (think Denver, not Houston), a swamp cooler or window evaporative unit can be a solid stopgap. Cheap to run and surprisingly effective when humidity is low.
Just don’t mix it with central AC—they fight each other.
Bottom Line
If your AC is dying but you’re not ready to replace it, you’re not completely out of luck. A few smart moves can stretch your comfort (and your system) through the hottest months.
Is it a permanent solution? Nope. But sometimes survival is good enough for now.
And if you’re not sure whether a repair makes sense—or whether you’re just putting lipstick on an HVAC pig—ask a pro who’s willing to run the numbers with you. Not every decision needs to be expensive. Just informed.
Premier Mechanical – www.claimyourcomfort.com – 720.207.6812