Beat the Heat: Smart Tips for Staying Cool During a Heatwave

When the mercury rises and a heatwave hits Central New Jersey, staying cool becomes more than a matter of comfort—it becomes a matter of safety and energy efficiency. At Accurate Conditioning, we’ve helped homeowners and businesses across Sayreville, Parlin, East Brunswick, South River, and Old Bridge navigate sweltering summers for over 20 years.

Whether you have central air conditioning or rely on a combination of fans and window units, this guide will help you stay cool, save energy, and protect your well-being during extreme heat.

What Is a Heatwave?

A heatwave is defined as a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, typically combined with high humidity. In places like Middlesex County, NJ, temperatures can climb into the high 90s and even cross into triple digits, often without much nighttime relief.

Heatwaves can be especially dangerous for:

• The elderly

• Young children

• Pets

• People with chronic health conditions

• Those without access to air conditioning

So, let’s explore how to beat the heat with practical, energy-conscious, and effective strategies.

1. Optimize Your Air Conditioning System

When the heat hits, your A/C becomes your best friend—so make sure it's ready to perform.

✅ Schedule Regular Maintenance

If you haven’t had your HVAC system serviced recently, now’s the time. At Accurate Conditioning, we recommend a tune-up at the start of each cooling season to ensure maximum performance.

✅ Change Your Air Filter

A clogged filter restricts airflow and reduces efficiency. Swap it out every 1–3 months—especially during high-use periods like July and August.

✅ Upgrade to a High-Efficiency System

If your system is 10–15 years old and struggling to keep up, it may be time to consider an upgrade. As a Ruud Pro Partner, we install some of the most reliable and energy-efficient units on the market.

✅ Don’t Forget Smart Thermostats

Installing a programmable or smart thermostat can help you maintain ideal comfort while minimizing energy use—especially during peak heat hours.

2. Use Fans Strategically

Fans don’t cool the air, but they move it—and that can make a big difference in how cool you feel.

💡 Ceiling Fans

Set your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise in the summer to create a wind-chill effect.

💡 Box Fans & Window Fans

Place box fans across from open windows to create cross-ventilation. Just be sure to close windows when the outdoor air gets hotter than indoors.

💡 Don’t Forget Exhaust Fans

Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans sparingly but effectively—they remove hot air and humidity during and after cooking or showering.

3. Block the Heat at the Source

About 76% of sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows becomes heat inside your home.

🪟 Close Blinds & Curtains

Use blackout curtains, blinds, or thermal window coverings to block sunlight and reduce indoor temperatures.

🚪 Shut Unused Rooms

Keep doors closed to unused rooms to trap cool air in the most lived-in spaces.

🧱 Insulate & Seal

Even in the summer, insulation helps keep cool air in and hot air out. Seal cracks and weather-strip doors and windows for extra protection.

4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Light

When it’s hot, your body works overtime to cool itself. Help it out by staying hydrated and lightening your meals.

🥤 Drink More Water

Aim to drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you faster.

🥗 Eat Fresh, Cold Foods

Think salads, fruits, yogurt, smoothies, and cold sandwiches. Avoid using the oven or stove, as they heat up your home quickly.

5. Change Your Routine

Adjusting your daily habits can help minimize heat exposure and maximize comfort.

☀️ Do Chores Early or Late

Avoid doing laundry, vacuuming, or using appliances during the hottest parts of the day (usually 12–5 PM).

🧘 Slow Down

Excessive movement generates more body heat. If you exercise, do it early in the morning or in an air-conditioned gym.

6. Use Heatwave-Specific Cooling Hacks

Here are some quick and creative tricks to stay cool when your A/C needs backup:

• Damp Washcloths: Apply cold, damp cloths to your neck, wrists, and ankles.

• Cold Showers: A short cold shower can quickly lower your core temperature.

• DIY Ice Fan: Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to blow chilled air.

• Sleep Smart: Use lightweight, breathable sheets (cotton or bamboo) and consider sleeping with a fan nearby.

7. Keep Pets Safe & Cool

Don’t forget your furry family members during a heatwave!

• Ensure pets have constant access to fresh water.

• Keep them indoors during peak heat.

• Never leave pets in a parked car—temps can rise dangerously fast.

• Lay down a damp towel or cooling mat in their favorite lounging spot.

8. Be Aware of Heat-Related Illnesses

Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially if you or someone in your household is sensitive to extreme temperatures.

⚠️ Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:

• Dizziness or fainting

• Excessive sweating

• Muscle cramps

• Cool, pale skin

• Nausea or vomiting

⚠️ Heat Stroke Symptoms (Medical Emergency):

• High body temperature (103°F or higher)

• Confusion or slurred speech

• Seizures

• Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating

• Unconsciousness

If you suspect heat stroke, call 911 immediately.

9. Prepare for Power Outages

During heatwaves, the energy grid can become strained, and power outages are more likely. Be ready:

• Keep a battery-powered fan on hand.

• Store cold packs in your freezer.

• Make sure flashlights and batteries are available.

• Know the location of local cooling centers in Middlesex County.

10. Know When to Call the Pros

Even with all the right tricks, a poorly functioning HVAC system can make heatwaves unbearable. If your air conditioning unit:

• Blows warm air

• Cycles constantly

• Makes strange noises

• Fails to cool evenly across your home

  
  

…it’s time to call the pros at Accurate Conditioning.

We offer expert HVAC service and installation across Sayreville, Parlin, Old Bridge, East Brunswick, South River, and nearby communities. As a Ruud Pro Partner, we install industry-leading systems and provide honest, reliable service backed by decades of experience.

📞 Call us today: 732-406-5822

Stay Cool, Central Jersey

With smart planning, a few cooling tricks, and a reliable HVAC system, you can ride out the worst heatwaves without breaking a sweat. At Accurate Conditioning, we’re here to help you stay comfortable, save energy, and enjoy every moment of summer in Central New Jersey.