KCPL Kids - Conserving Electric Energy, Heating and Cooling

Conserving Heating and Cooling Energy

Nothing uses as much energy in your home as the heating and cooling systems. This is where approximately 44% of a household's utility costs are spent each year. No matter what kind of heating and cooling system you have at home, there are many ways to save money and increase your comfort:

Properly insulate your home's attic, walls, windows and doors
Perform regular maintenance and cleaning
- Change or clean filters frequently
- Make sure ducts are insulated and free from leaks
Close off rooms that you don't use
Keep furniture from blocking vents and air returns
Use ceiling or room fans to circulate air
Use a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature according to your needs
Avoid activities that add heat or humidity to your home in the summer, especially during the hottest part of the day
Open drapes in the winter to let sun in; close them in the summer to keep sun and heat out

You may want to look into an alternative heatpump system that saves both energy and money. A heatpump can be used for heat in the winter and cooling in the summer. They work best in regions that have mild to moderate climates (where the ground doesn't freeze). According to the experts a heatpump provides 2 to 3 times the amount of energy they consume. They basically pull heat from the ground, air and water outside into your home for warmth in the winter, and in reverse in the summer to pull heat from the house to the outside to cool.

Using a heatpump system can save as much as 40% on your heating bill in the winter. It also significantly reduces the carbon dioxide emissions if you heat with natural gas.

Return to Energy House

Home I Visitor's Center I Clubhouse I Neighborhood
School I Nature Trail I Power Plant I Site Info.