Beat the heat while saving energy and money by following these air conditioning recommendations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program.

Save while you’re away. Programmable thermostats that have earned the Energy Star rating automatically adjust temperature settings while you’re asleep or away.

Out with the old. When replacing AC equipment, remember Energy Star–qualified air conditioners and heat pumps offer significant long-term energy savings compared with ten-year-old units, and use at least 20 percent less energy than new standard models.

Flip on the fan. Ceiling fans circulate cool air so you can adjust your thermostat for energy savings.

Fix it. Tune up your central air system annually to keep it operating efficiently.

Seal it. Effective duct sealing and insulation prevent leaks of conditioned air between the walls, ceilings, and floors and can save up to 10 percent on energy bills.

Cool one room. Room air conditioners provide heat relief only where and when you need it. An Energy Star qualified, single-room air conditioner will be at least 10 percent more efficient than older models.

Buy smart. When buying a new air conditioner, make sure it’s properly sized and installed—bigger is not always better. Units with too large a capacity cost more and may decrease your home’s comfort.

For information on keeping your home comfortable year-round, get the Energy Star Guide to Energy-Efficient Cooling and Heating. EnergyStar.gov/hvacguide; (888) 782-7937.