Fall Home Prep: Save Energy, Stay Comfortable

Fall Home Prep: Save Energy, Stay Comfortable 
 
As temperatures begin to cool, fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the
season ahead. A few simple maintenance tasks now can help improve comfort, reduce
energy waste, and potentially lower heating costs throughout the winter. According to
the U.S. Department of Energy, sealing air leaks and improving weatherization are
among the most cost-effective ways to save energy and money on your bill. 

Fall Energy-Saving Checklist 

? Schedule a heating system tune-up. Have your furnace or heat pump
inspected before the first cold snap. Regular maintenance helps
equipment operate more efficiently and can identify small issues before they
become costly repairs.  

? Replace HVAC filters and inspect ductwork. Clean filters improve airflow and
efficiency. If your home's ductwork hasn't been inspected in years, consider
having it evaluated for leaks or excess dust buildup. Evergy also offers rebates
for qualifying duct sealing projects in Kansas.  

? Seal drafts around doors and windows. Adding weatherstripping to movable
doors and windows and caulking gaps around frames can reduce heat loss and
improve comfort. These inexpensive upgrades often pay for themselves quickly
through energy savings.  

? Install outlet and switch plate gaskets. Exterior wall outlets and switches can
be hidden sources of drafts. Foam gaskets behind plates are an inexpensive way
to reduce unwanted air leaks.  

? Clean up leaves and outdoor debris. Remove leaves from around outdoor
HVAC equipment and keep vents clear to maintain proper airflow and protect
equipment from damage during the colder months. 

? Explore high-efficiency HVAC rebates. If your heating and cooling system is
more than 10 years old, frequently needs repairs, or struggles to keep your home
comfortable, fall can be an ideal time to upgrade. Evergy offers rebates of up to
$1,000 on qualifying high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment. 

A little preparation now can go a long way when winter arrives. By combining routine
maintenance with energy-efficient upgrades and weatherization improvements, Kansas
homeowners can enjoy a more comfortable home, lower energy use, and greater peace
of mind throughout the heating season. 

Reach out to me! 

If you’d like me to speak about energy-efficiency tips at an event, or you’d like more
information, please email me at Janelle.Dobbins@evergy.com. Check out energy
efficiency programs and offers for Evergy customers at evergy.com/save.