If you have a fan, turn it on. A ceiling fan or box fan causes a wind chill effect that makes an air conditioner feel cooler when it’s set to a higher temperature setting, as long as the humidity isn’t too high.
If you live in an area with moderate temperatures, you might not need your central air conditioning all day and night. Take advantage of cooler temperatures at night by keeping your windows open. Close them first thing in the morning, and keep your shades and curtains drawn when it’s sunny outside to prevent the sun from heating up the house.
If you need the AC when you get home, program it to go on before you arrive or, with some thermostats, turn it on with a smartphone app.
If there’s a heat wave, avoid using your washer, dryer, and dishwasher during the heat of the day. Also make sure you use the exhaust fans in your kitchen when you’re cooking, or in the bathroom when you’re taking a shower.
Cooking outside on your grill is another way to keep the heat out of the house.
