In most homes, heating is the single largest energy cost. Keeping warm can make up two thirds of your total energy bill in colder parts of the country, and puts more than a billion tons of CO2 overall into the atmosphere. Even small changes in home heating efficiency can lead to large reductions in greenhouse gases.

There are numerous ways to improve home heating efficiency, but none so simple as dressing warmly and simply dialing back the thermostat. Most heating systems are designed to heat the whole house, not just the occupants. Put on a sweater and you become your own space heater. Or, if you don't like the look, sneak in an extra layer underneath your usual clothes.

Sweater tips:

  1. If it's been a while since you've worn a sweater, don't overtax yourself. Choose one that's not too bulky, scratchy, or musty. Select the undershirt with care-it should not grip the sweater too tightly or be too slippery.
  2. Approach from the bottom of the garment. Glasses, earrings or other facial piercings may snag. Take appropriate precautions.
  3. Take the time to get it right-if you don't get the sleeve rotation right or the collar adjusted properly, you'll know it.
  4. If in doubt, do not tuck. Gaze with appreciation at your new climate-friendly image.

To see these steps in more detail, click here to see a page from the Live Earth Global Warming Survival Handbook.

Savings are significant. For every degree you drop your thermostat you save about 2% on your heating bill and eliminate another 250 pounds of CO2 per year. Utilities recommend setting your thermostat to 68°F in the winter.