• Your energy use and costs for the last year: You'll need your last 12 months of utility bills OR a 12-month summary statement from you utility companies.



• The energy sources for your home: Do you use natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, propane and/or kerosene to heat and cool your home?



• The square footage of your home, including the basement.

Tips for Summer Savings

• Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. An ideal thermostat setting in the summer is 78 degrees or above.


• On hot days, avoid using the oven; cooking on the stove, using a microwave oven, or grill outside.


• To prevent heat gain through your windows, install window coverings like blinds, draperies, high-reflectivity films, mesh window screens, awnings, overhangs, shades or shutters.


• Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your room air-conditioning thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these applicances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.


• Minimize activities that generate a lot of heat, such as running a computer, burning open flames, running a dishwasher, and using hot devices such as curling irons or hair dryers. Even stereos and televistions will add heat to your home.

Westar employees are available to give presentations on energy efficiency to your business, nonprofit organization, or community group. E-mail us at EfficiencyWorks@WestarEnergy.com to schedule a speaker for your group.