20 Tips on How to Make a Room Cooler- A Guide for Landlord and Tenants

In the rented accommodation world, ensuring the comfort of tenant's is crucial for maintaining positive landlord-tenant relationships and promoting long-lasting tenancies.

However, there are situations where the luxury of air conditioning isn't available or practical. This guide explores practical strategies for cooling down a room without relying on AC units, offering solutions suitable for both landlords and tenants.

By implementing these techniques, you can transform a hot and uncomfortable space into a cool and inviting haven.

20 ways to cool down a room fast without air conditioning

Building on our understanding of why relying solely on air conditioning may not always be practical, let's explore 20 efficient ways both landlords and tenants can cool down a room quickly.

1. Close and cover windows to prevent heat from entering

Landlords can install energy-efficient windows, while renters should use temporary window films or curtains to keep cool air inside and heat out.

2. Be creative with fans for better air circulation

Tenants can use portable fans for added airflow, and landlords might consider ceiling fans to improve cold air ventilation in their rental properties.

3. Close gaps around your doors and windows to seal out hot air

Renters can use weatherstripping, while landlords should ensure proper insulation and sealing.

4. Promote a cross breeze by strategically opening windows

Both renters and landlords can benefit from understanding the ideal window configurations that promote cross ventilation.

5. Turn off and unplug unnecessary appliances to reduce heat production

Renters should be mindful of energy use, while landlords can invest in energy-efficient appliances for their rental units.

6. Open windows and interior doors at night to let in cooler air

Tenants can save money and conserve energy when adopting this practice. Landlords should consider installing secure window locks for added safety.

7. Sleep closer to the floor where it's cooler

Renters can place their mattresses closer to the ground, and landlords could consider providing platform beds if the property is rented furnished.

8. Remember that heat rises, so stay on lower levels of your home

Landlords can advise tenants on the cooler areas within their properties, such as basements, and renters can adjust their living arrangements accordingly.

9. Keep the stove turned off to avoid adding more heat

Prioritize cooking methods that generate less heat, like a microwave or slow cooker.

10. Adjust your ceiling fan according to the season for optimal cooling

Renters should learn to use ceiling fans efficiently, while landlords can install reversible ones for versatile use.

11. Implement methods to exhaust hot air from your space

Renters can use window or exhaust fans for house cool-downs, and landlords can consider installing attic fans or roof vents for better hot air ventilation.

12. Add shade outside your home to reduce solar heat gain

Renters can use outdoor umbrellas or plant shade trees, and landlords can consider landscaping improvements that provide natural shade to their properties.

13. Place ice or cool water in front of a fan for extra cooling

This budget-friendly tip can be adapted to move warm air and cool down a room instantly.

14. Close the doors to unused rooms

Renters can limit their cooling efforts to occupied spaces, while landlords can encourage this practice to save on energy costs in vacant rooms.

15. Pare down your bedding for a cooler sleep

Renters can use lighter bedding options in the summer, and landlords can provide bedding sets suitable for different seasons if furnishings are part of the rental agreement.

16. Drink more cool water to regulate your body temperature

It's important to stay hydrated and ensure you drink enough cold water, especially during warm and hot days.

17. Consider buying cooling mattresses, pillows, and sheets

Landlords can invest in high-quality bedding options, while renters can explore these products to enhance their comfort.

18. Hang a wet sheet in your room to cool down the air

Renters can use this quick trick to lower room temperature.

19. Upgrade all your light bulbs to LED to reduce heat generation

Landlords can switch to LED bulbs in rental properties, and renters can replace bulbs in their living spaces.

20. Turn off the lights when not needed to reduce heat production

Both renters and landlords can encourage energy-efficient lighting habits to minimize light-generated heat.

Why not just buy an AC unit for your room?

Opting for an air conditioning unit might seem like an ideal solution to combat the heat in a room, but it's important to recognize that this choice may not always be feasible or practical for either landlords or tenants. Here's why:

1. Cost: Purchasing and installing an AC unit can be a significant upfront expense. Landlords might hesitate due to the initial investment and potential installation costs, while renters may not have the financial means to buy and maintain a unit.
2. Energy expenses: The use of AC units can lead to higher electricity bills, which landlords are sometimes responsible for. Renters, on the other hand, may want to avoid the added expense of running an AC unit continuously.
3. Property limitations: Some rental properties, especially older ones, may not have the electrical capacity to support AC units without expensive upgrades. Landlords may be reluctant to invest in such upgrades for short-term tenants.
4. Environmental impact: AC units contribute to increased energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Both landlords and tenants may want to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace more eco-friendly cooling alternatives.
5. Flexibility: Renters may move frequently, making it impractical to invest in a costly AC unit for every short-term living arrangement. Landlords may prefer solutions that enhance the appeal of their properties without the need for permanent AC installations.
6. Maintenance and repairs: AC units require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Landlords must consider the ongoing upkeep costs, and renters may not want to deal with the hassle and expenses of maintaining an AC unit they don't own.
7. Property regulations: In some rental situations, property regulations, lease agreements, or homeowner association rules may restrict the installation or use of AC units, limiting the options available to both landlords and tenants.
8. Availability and demand: AC units may be in high demand during peak summer months and challenging to obtain quickly. Renters might not want to wait or invest in a temporary solution while waiting for an AC unit to become available.

While air conditioning units offer effective cooling, various practical, financial, and environmental factors can make them less attractive or feasible for landlords and tenants. With so many alternative methods to cool down a room, AC units may not be necessary in your rental unit.

How to cool a room down without AC

Landlords and tenants each have numerous options at their disposal in the quest to beat the heat without the luxury of air conditioning. By implementing the twenty strategies outlined in this guide, you can create a cooler and more comfortable living environment that benefits everyone involved.

Landlords can enhance the desirability of their properties, attract and retain quality tenants, and reduce energy costs. Tenants can enjoy a more pleasant and habitable space while contributing to environmental sustainability.

So, whether you're a property owner or a renter, remember that in the absence of air conditioning, a bit of creativity and practical know-how can make all the difference. Working together ensures that the places we call home remain cool, inviting, and conducive to happy and lasting relationships.

How to cool down a room FAQs

How do you get hot air out of a room?

To remove hot air from a room without AC, you can use exhaust fans or window fans to push hot air out while bringing in cooler air from outside. Proper air circulation, cross breezes, and keeping windows open at night when the air is cooler can also help expel warm air.

Does putting ice in front of a fan work?

Yes, placing ice or a bowl of cold water in front of a fan can create a makeshift air cooler. The fan blows air over the cold surface, producing a cooling effect as the air circulates. This DIY air conditioner can be a quick solution to cool down a room.

How do you cool down a room in a rental?

Cooling a room in a rental without air conditioning is possible by following several steps. Start by using methods like closing curtains, covering windows, and sealing gaps around doors and windows to absorb heat and keep hot air out.

Utilize fans creatively for better air circulation, and consider using a wet sheet to cool down the air. Keeping the lights off and upgrading to energy-efficient LED bulbs can also help. Landlords can enhance cooling options by providing ceiling fans, energy-efficient appliances, and well-insulated properties, making the rental more comfortable for tenants.