How to save on your house cooling

Frigidaire FAA055P7A Compact Small-Room Air Conditioner with Remote Control
Although your first thought for cooling may be air conditioning, there are many alternatives that provide cooling with less energy use. A combination of proper insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, daylighting, shading, and ventilation will usually keep homes cool with a low amount of energy use in all but the hottest climates.
Air conditioners range from a small room air conditioner to a large central air conditioning unit. Most air conditioners operate at less than their maximum efficiency, presenting energy-saving opportunities. New air conditioning units are far more efficient than earlier models.
For example: Designed for rooms up to 165 square feet, this energy-efficient compact air conditioner helps keep indoor air cool in the summer. Easy to operate, the unit provides a variable speed fan, eight-way air-direction control, and electronic controls with a full-function remote control for convenient programming. Choose from Cool, Energy Saver, and Fan modes. The air conditioner will automatically maintain the selected temperature ranging from 60 and 90 degrees F. In Energy Saver mode, the compressor shuts off as needed and the fan continues to run intermittently; when the room heats up past the set temperature, the compressor turns back on and begins cooling again. Choose the "fan only" option for air circulation without cooling. The air conditioner also offers auto-cool and sleep settings, a 24-hour on/off timer, and ionizer/electrostatic air filtration for cleaner air that allergy suffers will be sure to appreciate.