MADISON, Wis. -- Corn-based ethanol can fuel certain cars but corn could also be used to heat some homes.

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The concept first gained notice during the Depression, as farmers tried to find cheaper ways to heat their homes. But nowadays burning corn for heat is gaining popularity as a cheaper and cleaner way to make it through the winter, WISC-TV reported.

As Wisconsin harvests a record corn crop this fall, people are finding some new uses for it.

Margaret White is entering her second winter heating her home with corn.

"Last winter, I know I saved a lot," White said. "It's going to be difficult to guesstimate because fuel has gone up and since I don't have those same power and light bills. I'm sure I'm going to save more than that this year."

Corn is cheaper than oil, and it's also a renewable resource, WISC-TV reported.

"I have 17 grandchildren and going on 11 great-grandchildren, and I'd like them to have the things we have and not have them all used up," White said.

A study for Wisconsin's Focus on Energy program estimated that there are about 8,000 corn stoves heating Wisconsin homes.

Craig Kanholz opened Badger State Burners and began selling corn stoves after he purchased one to heat his basement. The unit now heats his entire home, and he said he is looking to share his find with others.

Kanholz said the stoves produce very little smoke and the remaining ashes can be reused.

"Everything that's burnt, the ashes are real good for the soil," said Kanholz, a former farmer. "Mix it right back in and it helps enrich the soil again for next year's crop."

To heat a home with a wood stove requires throwing wood on the fire several times a day, but a corn stove continually feeds corn to the fire. One just has to make sure there's enough corn in the tank to keep going through the night, WISC-TV reported.

Corn stoves are more expensive than wood stoves and other heating appliances, and experts said they're not a perfect fit for every home. However, while the up-front costs are higher, in time, Kanholz said people can save more money compared to heating a home with gas.