Keeping cool indoors

If you don't have air conditioning -- or if you want to keep your power bill from going gangbusters -- you still can lower the temperature inside your house or apartment.

Green Living Ideas has a good list of indoor climate control tips. Most of these ideas don't require renovating your home either.

Some you've probably heard before, like limiting activities that generate heat (i.e., don't fire up the oven). You'll also find useful info about ceiling fans, attic fans, whole-house fans, and swamp coolers.

If you do have AC, eHow reminds you to check the unit's filters. Clean filters keep the machines running more efficiently, which will save money. Also, use the dehumidifier option instead of cranking down the temp as less-humid air feels more comfortable.

Finally, TreeHugger recommends we turn off the lights and electronics, take a cool shower, and then eat some organic ice cream. Nice advice!