With the first day of summer just around the corner, temperatures are rising outside and inevitably, they’ll rise inside, too. So what’s the most eco-friendly way to cool your home? Here’s a clue: It’s not your air conditioner. Instead, go for a little piece of technology that’s been around for over 100 years: The ceiling fan.

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), ceiling fans consume only a tenth of the energy that AC does and it can make a big difference. The air circulation can cool a room off by up to ten degrees. Choose an Energy Star rated model for the biggest savings like Craftmade’s Phoenix Series Ceiling Fan. It’s as easy to install as a new light fixture. Plus, with a feature that allows you to reverse the direction of the blades it can pull warm air down to keep you warm and help you save energy during the winter, too.

Ceiling fans can make a difference even if you choose to run your air conditioner. You can leave the temperature set higher, and keep your home cooler by circulating the air. The NRDC has several tips for how to stay cool and use your air conditioner less.

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