Air conditioners not only waste lots of energy but they also release refrigerant chemicals that can destroy the ozone layer.
Fans are a good alternative and circulate air well but if the air isn't cool then its no where near as nice as an air conditioner. In addition, a fan that is plugged in and running all day wastes electricity as well, but not nearly as much as an air conditioner. Fans are good on mild summer days. If you is a fan instead of an air conditioner, you might save 60% or more in energy.
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