Keep cool in Texas with this simple hack—no A/C necessary.

Texas is in the grips of a heatwave, and as temperatures soar, so does the potential for yet another catastrophic energy crisis. With the state still reeling from the fatal failures of its power grid in 2021, Texans are right to be wary of turning up the AC.

So, what's a Texan to do? Well, some desperate residents are resorting to creative measures to stay cool, like leaving their garage doors cracked open. The idea is that a few inches of fresh air will vent the garage and bring down the temperature in the rest of the home. But does it work?

Garages, often poorly insulated, can become saunas. Improving insulation is an ideal solution, but for many, especially renters, it's not feasible. So, folks are focusing on improving air circulation instead.

Garage door company D Bar Garage Doors weighs in, acknowledging that "[c]racking the door will indeed benefit and alleviate the heat that builds up" but cautions that proper insulation is key.

However, as a temporary fix, this trick can have some unintended consequences. While a slight crack in the garage door might provide some relief, it also presents opportunities for break-ins and unwanted critters.

To stay cool and avoid sky-high electricity bills, here are some tips to keep your AC running efficiently:

• Change the air filter
• Clean your vents
• Ensure the area around the outside unit is clear
• Clean the drain and coils
• Get your AC unit checked by a professional

As Texans battle the heat, it's interesting to note that according to an American-Statesman poll, the majority of respondents (around 20%) set their AC to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This aligns with the U.S. Department of Energy's recommended temperature for optimal savings and comfort.

Sources:

• D Bar Garage Doors: https://dbargaragedoors.com/blog/keeping-your-garage-cool-should-you-crack-the-garage-door-to-release-heat/
• U.S. Department of Energy: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/adjust-thermostat-settings-save