How do I keep my house cool without cranking the AC?

Close blinds on sun-facing windows during the day, run ceiling fans (counterclockwise in summer), and use exhaust fans to push out hot air after cooking/showering. Seal leaks, add attic insulation, and set the thermostat to a steady temp instead of big swings. At night, ventilate with cooler outside air. These add up to real savings before you touch the thermostat.