Frequently Asked Questions

 

How do MySmart Portal, MySmart Display and MySmart Thermostat communicate with me and KCP&L?
They communicate wirelessly with your meter using a low-power wireless radio technology called ZigBee. ZigBee is similar to Wi-Fi but has a wider range and uses less power. In the future, they may also communicate via the Internet using a Gateway device.

How do I sign up to get the MySmart Portal, MySmart Display or MySmart Thermostat in my home?
For MySmart Display and MySmart Thermostat you can either visit our website at www.kcplsmartgrid.com and sign up with an online enrollment form or by calling 1(800) 535-7687. MySmart Thermostat requires an appointment for the technician to come in and install it. For MySmart Portal, you can sign up online via AcccountLink at www.kcplsmartgrid.com. The registration is located in the top right-hand corner of the home page.

Do MySmart Portal, MySmart Display or MySmart Thermostat require an Internet connection?
Only MySmart Portal requires an Internet connection.  MySmart Thermostat and MySmart Display do not.  If you do not have a computer or Internet, we recommend logging in at a library or a friend’s house.

Do I have to replace my existing thermostat to get MySmart Thermostat?
Yes. This thermostat works like all other thermostat and controls both your central air-conditioning and your furnace.

Do I have to have MySmart Portal, MySmart Display and MySmart Thermostat in my home?
No. These products are all voluntary. If you do not wish to have them, just simply let us know that.

Can I buy these products in a store like Best Buy?
No. Because the products work directly with your meter and are brand new technology, you need to receive them from KCP&L.

How much do MySmart Portal, MySmart Display and MySmart Thermostat cost?
of the products are free to KCP&L customers who live within the demonstration area.

Will KCP&L control MySmart Thermostat?
KCP&L will cycle your air conditioner to raise or lower the temperature a few degrees on days when demand is high on the electric grid or when there is distribution congestion in specific areas.. This helps keep costs low and avoids electricity shortages. You always have complete control over how the thermostat is programmed to fit your lifestyle.

Will I be notified in advance of a MySmart Thermostat cycling event?
Yes. When the decision is made to initiate a cycling event, a notice will be posted on the KCP&L SmartGrid Web site’s MySmart Thermostat page. KCP&L will also send messages to the MySmart Thermostat, as well as, the MySmart Portal that provide notification of an event.

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Can I cancel my participation in MySmart Portal, MySmart Display or MySmart Thermostat?
This program is voluntary, so you may cancel at any time. For MySmart Portal, you simply either don’t log in to AccountLink or don’t visit that page. MySmart Display will need to be returned to KCP&L if you no longer wish to have it. Call 1(800) 535-7687 to find out what to do. MySmart Thermostat will need to be removed from your wall. Call 1(800) 535-7687 to schedule an appointment and KCP&L will remove the thermostat at no cost to you.

How much can I expect to save on my electric bill with MySmart Portal, MySmart Display and MySmart Thermostat?
These products are designed as visual aids that help you see where and when you are using your electricity. With this information, you can change your behaviors and habits to help lower your consumption thus lowering your bill. Actual savings will vary depending on what action is taken.

What is the difference between MySmart Portal and MySmart Display?
The data shown on the MySmart Portal is a day behind, so if you are looking at it on Sunday, you will see Saturday’s usage patterns. MySmart Display is near real-time usage data that shows how much you are using every 15 minutes.

How do I install MySmart Display?
MySmart Display communicates wirelessly with your home’s smart meter via radio signals, and provides reliable transmissions with little interference, so all you have to do is plug it into an outlet.

Where should I put MySmart Display?
MySmart Display should be located within 30 to 60 feet of the meter, depending on the way your home is constructed. You can place it in a convenient and easy-to-view location, but for maximum benefit, we recommend placing in a high traffic area like a family room.

How do I use MySmart Portal, MySmart Display and MySmart Thermostat?
MySmart Portal and MySmart Display have online instructions you can view on www.kcplsmartgrid.com. You also should have received a DVD when you received your meter that has instructions on how to use the products. If you need more help using it our troubleshooting, please call our SmartGrid Support Team at 1(800) 535-7687. When MySmart Thermostat is installed, the technician will teach you how to program it to fit your lifestyle.

How does MySmart Portal compare me to my community?
MySmart Portal utilizes your profile information anonymously and compares it to other MySmart Portal users. It is an estimation of how you use energy compared to similar homes in your community. This allows you to think about ways you could change your electricity-using habits.

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