By SALINA POST
Governor Laura Kelly has proclaimed Wednesday, October 2, as Kansas Energy Efficiency Day, joining hundreds of state and local governments in a national effort to raise awareness about the benefits of energy efficiency. As the colder months approach, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) is encouraging residents and businesses to take steps to winterize their properties and reduce utility costs.
The KCC highlighted that there are several no-cost or low-cost ways to save energy, with funding available for larger projects for those who qualify. Kansans in need of assistance can turn to a variety of resources.
Homeowners and renters who need help with weatherization costs can contact the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC). Income-eligible households can receive a comprehensive home energy audit to identify inefficiencies, with services and upgrades provided free of charge.
Small business owners and agricultural producers in communities with populations of fewer than 50,000 can also receive assistance. The KCC Energy Office, in collaboration with Kansas State University’s Engineering Extension, is offering a free energy assessment and help applying for a USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant, which helps fund energy-efficient improvements. More information on REAP grants is available here.
In recognition of Energy Efficiency Day, the KCC also shared practical steps that Kansans can take to reduce energy consumption and save money during the winter. They recommend adjusting the temperature by installing a programmable thermostat, allowing homeowners to lower heating when away or asleep and increase it when at home. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting the thermostat at 68 degrees in winter for optimal energy savings.
Lowering water heating costs is another way to conserve energy, as water heating accounts for about 18% of a home’s energy consumption. Setting the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit not only helps to prevent scalding but also saves energy.
Sealing leaks around windows, chimneys, and recessed lighting, as well as using draft guards under doors, can help improve energy efficiency. According to experts, addressing these small leaks can result in savings of up to 20% on heating costs.
Maintaining the HVAC system is also crucial for reducing energy consumption. Cleaning or replacing HVAC filters regularly ensures the system operates efficiently.
Using windows to harness natural sunlight during the day can help warm the home, while reversing ceiling fans to a clockwise direction during winter months circulates warm air more effectively.
Efficiency in washing clothes and dishes is another important step. Using cold water for laundry can significantly reduce energy use since washing machines consume 90% of their energy to heat water. Similarly, running full loads in the dishwasher and air-drying dishes instead of using the heated drying cycle can help cut energy costs.
Switching to LED lighting is a straightforward way to save on electricity bills. ENERGY STAR® certified LEDs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can save households up to $75 annually.
Turning off electronics and appliances when not in use is another simple way to reduce energy waste. Unplugging devices or using power strips can help cut down on idle energy consumption.
Finally, homeowners who have made qualified energy-efficient improvements may be eligible for tax credits of up to $3,200. These credits apply to improvements made after January 1, 2023, and can be claimed through 2032. For more information, residents are encouraged to visit the IRS website.
For further details and a shareable flyer with energy-saving tips, resources are available online.