Fans can be used in conjunction with air conditioning to optimize energy efficiency by reducing the load on the air conditioner. By circulating air and increasing evaporation of perspiration, fans can make us feel cooler, allowing us to raise the thermostat on our air conditioner and save energy overall. This is especially beneficial during peak summer months when energy consumption is highest. Additionally, using fans during off-peak hours can help reduce the overall energy consumption of the air conditioner.