Cheat Sheet: Ways to keep your cool, beyond air-conditioning

Philadelphia Inquirer, The, June, 2008 by Alan J. Heavens Inquirer Real Estate Writer

It's only June, not officially summer yet, and already it's been broiling hot. If this keeps up, there's little doubt that we'll all see our electricity bills spike. Rising gasoline prices will probably mean fewer escapes to the Shore or the mountains. And for those on fixed incomes, the cost of keeping cool may stretch finances to the limit.

With that in mind, and with assistance from the U.S. Department of Energy and the nonprofit Alliance to Save Energy, here are some tips for being more efficient as the heat waves roll in. (If you have other ideas, please share.) Chill out. On days when air-conditioning isn't crucial, open the windows and use portable or ceiling fans. When air-condition you must, use a fan with your window unit, to push the cool air farther. Keep TVs and lamps away from your thermostat - the heat they generate can make central ...