EPA Offers Tips to Save Energy and Fight Climate Change this Summer

With summer and the high costs of cooling right around the corner, EPA is offering advice to help Americans reduce both energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions by one-third through Energy Star. The energy used in an average home costs more than $2,200 a year and contributes more greenhouse gas emissions than a typical car.

"A few simple changes will help create real reductions in high summer electric bills and provide a hefty cut in greenhouse gas emissions in the bargain," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "It's important that we all do our part to confront climate change, especially when it can help save money during these challenging economic times."

Here are some tips to save energy and help protect the environment at home and at work:
· Set your programmable thermostat to save while you are away or asleep. Using it properly can save up to $180 per year in energy costs.
· Run ceiling fans in a clockwise direction to create a wind-chill effect that will make you "feel" cooler. Remember that ceiling fans cool people, not rooms -- so turn them off when you leave the room.
· Inspect your duct system for obvious signs of leaks and disconnections -- most houses leak 20 percent or more. Seal any leaks with foil tape or a special sealant called "duct mastic." Also, consider insulating ducts in attics, basements and crawlspaces. Read all of the energy tips.