Creative ways to keep your home cool without relying entirely on air conditioning

Seventeen strategies can lower indoor heat and energy costs, including nighttime ventilation, attic fans, exterior sun shades, window films, sealing attic hatches, cross-ventilation, light-colored interiors, reflective finishes, DIY cooling methods, adjusting fan direction, and timing window openings and shading to trap cool air, all helping reduce AC use and energy bills.