Save energy. Stay cool with less AC.

Keeping cool isn’t just about comfort; in the worst of recent heat waves, whether Chicago's in 1995 or New York's in 2006, hundreds have died. And climate change will only make this worse. But every time you crank up the AC, power plants pump out more greenhouse gases, making the problem worse. Is there a way out of this lose-lose cycle? Actually, yes. Recall the wise ways of your parents, or grandparents, and try out some passive cooling techniques that should definitely cut your AC use and your energy bills and your carbon footprint along with it.

During the day: Shut curtains, shades or blinds on the sunny side of the house. If you are considering new window coverings, look for venetian (or horizontal) blinds in highly reflective light colors that halve the heat buildup in your home. The two-inch wide slats are especially nice since they open up the view without letting in more light.

At night: Turn off the AC and create a convective cooling system with your windows and a couple fans. Crack open the windows on the lower-story. Don’t throw them open wide, just an inch or two—this will create a strong draft. Place portable and window mounted fans in your upstairs windows, facing outward to remove the rising hot air. You’ll sleep well knowing you are spending less and reducing your carbon footprint!