The moderate breeze they create will extend your comfort range by several degrees. Fans do require energy, but they are far more efficient than air conditioning, which uses the energy-intensive process of refrigeration. Since humidity adds to discomfort, dehumidifiers are also useful cooling mechanisms that remove the moisture from the air. Replace the filter every month and clean the coils once a year. If you plan to buy an air conditioner, buy an efficient one.
Air conditioners are expensive to operate.
The SEER is the average efficiency over a cooling season expressed as the seasonal total power consumption for an average U.S. climate. The EER is the unit's performance expressed as the peak cooling capacity divided by the electric power input, when running at full capacity. Finally, an ice cold beverage in hand is a time-honored technique for staying cool during the summer months. So brew up a batch of iced tea or lemonade and share your knowledge of energy-efficient cooling methods with a friend or neighbor. Oftentimes, people sit in air-conditioned splendor unaware that there are environmental costs associated with their indulgence.