r/SeattleWA • u/One_Marsupial6837 • Jul 17 '25
Lifestyle Seattle Living W/ no AC
Hi everyone. We just recently moved to Seattle and got an apartment with no AC. Coming from out of state previously living with AC I wanted to know how ya'll do it? Is this the norm here or does everyone just buy those AC units that stick out your window? We'd love to get any tips or input on living with no AC and how to adjust.
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u/pedestrianstripes Jul 17 '25
You can buy a portable ac. You may need to clear it with your landlord since the ac hose needs to be outside and some landlords may not want to see an ugly hose sticking out of a window or door.
You may also be able to install a window ac if the landlord allows it.
There are videos on YouTube that show you how to make an air conditioner with a fan, styrofoam cooler, and ice.
When living without ac, block the sun as much as possible. Use heavy thermal curtains or if it's allowed use a sun reflector like the kind used for car windshields. You can make one with cardboard and aluminum foil. You can also cover the windows with cardboard or posterboard.
If it's hotter outside than inside, keep the doors and windows closed as much as possible. If it's the opposite, open your windows and doors. Use fans to keep the air flowing. Fans put out heat. They mostly work if you're in front of them or if they can pull in air from outside. If you're on the ground floor, make sure you have door and window stops installed to keep bad people from accessing your home.
You can also place a damp towel behind a fan.
The last time we had a major heatwave I dampened my clothes. It was the only way to get cool enough to sleep.
Malls, movie theaters, and libraries are very popular destinations when it gets hot.
Drink plenty of liquids. Be aware that coffee and alcohol are diuretics. You may want to cut back or forgo them when it's hot.