Issuu

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

P.O. Box 127 Graceville, FL 32440-0127

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Save Money and Still Enjoy Fun in the Sun Pages 10-11

WISEFLY AUTO GLASS Est. 2007

Windshield Replacements Call Now (850) 387-2400 • Any Glass • Any Vehicle

MV100767

Specializing in Spray Foam Insulation

INSIDE ... Safety Tips for Piers & Docks

Happy Independence Day! Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

C&C Construction & Roofing

Deck Kits!

Your Locally Grown Roofing Company Since 1996

Residential Roofing Specialist Locally Owned & Operated

New BULK Chlorine in Stock!

Specializing in residential and commercial roofing projects

• Shingle Roofing • Roofing Repairs • All Types of Metal Roofing • All Types of Flat Roofs

Multiple Financing Options Available Call Today for Free Estimates

(850) 547-1001

www.candcroofingandconstruction.com 690 E. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL 32425 License Numbers: FL #CCCF1327331 • AL #S-44779

6x8 8x10 10x12 12x16

...pgs. 3-4

Savings that Begin Under Your Roof ...pgs. 5-6 Interested in Rooftop Solar? Contact WFEC First ...pg. 7 Owens to Represent WFEC ...pg. 8 Develop Good Habits to Save Energy this Summer

...pgs. 12-13

www.panhandlesalvage.com

Beat the Peak

...pgs. 14-15

Tri-State Leader of Barn Kit & Deck Kit Sales Since 1997

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18

Many more sizes to choose from!

Panhandle Lumber & Supply

850-547-9354 • 405 W. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

ISSUE JULY 2021

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

71, NO 7

FLASHES

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 71, NO 7

Current Light Flashes is the official voice of West Florida Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., a member-owned Touchstone Energy® cooperative serving Calhoun, Holmes, Jackson, and Washington counties. It is published as a service to the Co-op’s members. Periodicals postage is paid at Graceville, Florida.

WFEC Board of Trustees

Serving the Area for Over 60 Years

Septic Tank Service, Installation & Repair Dirt • Rock • Culverts

Ph: (850) 547-3658 Plumbing • Electrical Licensed & Insured

Randy

BUSH

District 7 / Vice President

$50 payouts before & after session. Pull tab games up to $1,000! Friday nights: All sessions pay $250! Saturdays: Jackpot games @ 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 & 10 Sundays: Balloon games - win up to $250! Wednesdays & Sundays: T-shirt night

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc.

Mobile Home Pads • Land Clearing • Excavation

District 8 / President

Open 6 days a week. Closed Tuesdays. Session at 7:30 nightly.

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

Equipment Rentals, Tractors, Trenchers, Etc.

Joe E.

(850) 263-7788

Paper Only Bingo. Located across the street from Graceville High School.

24 Hour Emergency Response

Rent-All • We have everything you need!

RONE

HWY. 77 BINGO, INC.

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

CURRENT LIGHT

ST!”

“If You’ve Called the Rest • Now Call The BE

Saturday & Sundays - Double Action Mini-Session at 4:00 PM

Zero-turn gets it done quick. Zero compromise gets it done right. The New Z200

Providing quality printing and service to the Florida panhandle and south Alabama since 1961.

Gas powered

955 Tate Drive Dothan, Alabama 334-792-8408 • dplinc@graceba.net

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC

David

John

TATUM

ADAMS

District 1

District 4 / Secretary-Treasurer

Jackie

Tim

Residential • Commercial

Andy Hall 850.557.3368 Brent Hall 850.718.7314

New Construction, Re-Roof, Additions & Repairs Shingle • Metal & More!

Over 21 Years Professional Experience 5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

# CBC1260614 • # CCC1330769 Free Estimates • 24 Hour Emergency Service Serving Northwest Florida!

Visit today to see how the new Z200 delivers a fast cut and Kubota quality. • Professional-level cut • Precise and effortless control

• Improved traction and performance • Comfortable and easy to use

Panhandle Tractor • (850) 526-2257 5003 Highway 90 • Marianna, Florida 32446

KubotaUSA.com ©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2020. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your dealer or KubotaUSA.com.

POOSER

ALFORD

Together we do more.

District 3

District 2

Together We Can Stay Safe David

George Clayton

District 5

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Digging too close to a pad-mounted transformer like the one above can damage underground cables, leading to electrical shock or interruptions in service. Use caution when landscaping. Call 811 before you dig and stay safe.

Energy Efficiency Tip During summer months, run large appliances that emit heat (like dryers & dishwashers) during the evening when it’s cooler. This will minimize indoor heat during the day when outdoor temps are highest.

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Tracey R. Kent, Realtor Property Manager

Southern Way Realty, Inc. 850-326-7463

PEEL

1014 Main Street, Chipley, FL 32428 traceykent828@gmail.com • www.southernwayrealty.com

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JULY 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 19

Multiple Listings

WANTED

Loveseat, tan, $75; gun cabinet, holds 10 guns, $75; Weslo Cardio Glide machine, $45; 482-7608.

Someone to do yardwork; 526-5107.

Handmade quilts, 4 sizes; 6' pool table, like new; 2 used tubs for troughs, low prices; 547-3649.

FREE

Backhoe, good condition, ready to work; 547-1519. Horses, ponies, mules, donkeys, 5' bush hog, round pen panels; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

Two-horse trailer; trained Walker coon dogs; 1991 Toyota transmission; barrel, roping, pleasure Want to learn to crochet small toys, saddles; tack; gentle horse; 592-2494 looking for private lessons or class; 843-441-9270, leave message. or 209-8532.

Real Estate 71 acre pasture in Washington County, small pond, fenced, $280,000; 234-7070. Jackson Farm Well Services Patrick Jackson

850-573-6623 Notification Statement

Notice is hereby given that the West Florida Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. Board of Trustees regularly meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, unless special circumstances warrant a change. Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400 Subscription Rate Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year Change of Address Notices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes P. O. Box 127 Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 DISCLAIMER: Although paid advertisements may appear in West Florida Electric (WFEC) publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, WFEC does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. WFEC reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish any advertisement, article or information.

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 18

150-500 acres pasture land in Holmes or Washington County; 234-7070. Bowl lathe, turning tools; 448-6224. License plates from any state, mainly Florida, prior to 1980; old motorcycles or parts prior to 1960; 557-7030, Greg. 1948-1953 Chevy/GMC half ton pickup truck, in restorable condition; 209-1372, Steve.

Two 55 gallon aquariums, complete, if you take both it comes with 30 years of aquarium stuff, also free; 547-4853. 30L aquarium, all covers and pumps included, some gravel (glass), needs a good cleaning; 348-2638.

Art’s Home Services Carpenter/Handyman Build It - Fix It Clean It - Haul It

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 Brock’s Equipment Service Cottondale • (850) 579-4863 Cell • (850) 573-1863

Excavator, Dozer & Dump Truck Service

Safety Tips for Piers and Docks

esidents in our region of the country are known for their love of the water. But we all are acutely aware that electricity and water are a dangerous – and possibly fatal – combination. Swimmers and boat owners at piers, docks and marinas need to take a few steps to make sure their time in and on the water is safe. While this might seem like common sense, boats and docks are often powered by electricity. One mistake could lead to tragedy. Unfortunately, there is no visible warning to electrified water. Electric current in water causes a paralysis of muscles, which results in drowning. As a little as 10 milliamps (1/50th of the amount used by a 60 watt light bulb) can cause paralysis and drowning. If you are swimming – or have contact with water – and feel a tingling, the water might be electrified. Immediately get out of the water and avoid using metal objects such as a ladder. Immediately alert others, try to stay upright, tuck legs to be smaller, and swim away from anything that could be energized. If you believe an electrical drowning is occurring, immediately turn off all power, throw a life ring to the person and call 911. Do not enter the water, as it could still be electrified. continued on page 4

Land Clearing, Pond Building, Demolition, Site Preparation, Ditch Work, Tree & Debris Removal, Sand & Top Soil

West Florida Electric Right of Way Clearing Crews will be cutting & trimming right of ways in the following area(s) during the month of

July

Westville, Caryville & Gritney

Davis and Son’s Plumbing & Septic Tank Service

When right-of-way (ROW) crews are trimming in your area, there may be several days between ROW cutting & clean-up crews due to inclement weather, equipment failure or other unforeseen circumstances.

• New Installation • Drainfield Repair/Replacement • Septic Tank Pumping & Service • Free Estimates

Bonifay: 956-4329 • Chipley: 638-5406 State Certified CFC1425994 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ROW Update:

ISSUE JULY 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

Yard Needs Mowed? Call Mike (850) 596-8767

200-Amp Power Pole $329.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $229.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc.

Contact Rick at 526-2183 or Anthony Register at 573-0219

Chavers Brock Furniture 1181 Jackson Avenue • Chipley

(850) 638-0188

New & Used Furniture

We Deliver!

If you own a dock or pier, install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) and test them monthly. Be sure to use portable “UL-Marine List” GFCIs when using electricity near water. If you own a boat that uses electricity, consider having Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupters (ELCI) installed to protect swimmers from electric shock in the water around the boat. The Energy Education Council recommends that all electrical installations be performed by a professional electrical contractor familiar with marine codes and standards. Additionally, neighboring docks can present a shock hazard. Make sure your neighbors are aware of the need of safety inspections and maintenance. The organization also recommends that individuals not swim around docks with electrical equipment or boats plugged into shore power. Many ESD (electrical shock drowning) deaths have occurred around private docks and boats plugged into shore power while docked. At WFEC, safety is our top priority. We value your membership. We value you.

David & Family Tree Services

Prices Normally Run 25% less than other insured competitors Bonded & Fully Insured • Free Estimates

(850) 326-1559

Forestry Mulching

Hill View Assisted Living Center

with our equipment, we simply grind the bush or trees to the ground into a mulch. The mulch will decay & put nutrients back into the soil, food plots, fence runs or cut over timber.

3854 Florida Highway 2 • Graceville, FL 32440

Call today for more info 850-263-0500 Private Pay Facility 12 beds, private rooms Qualified staff - available 24 hrs./day Clean, quiet, rural setting • $3,200/mo. Have been COVID free during the pandemic

Trim Cut Remove Stump Grinding Veteran-Owned

Hinson Land Clearing (850) 481-2960

SOUTHSIDE T J G

Commercial & Residential Sales, Service, Leasing Installation

Residential & Commercial

www.mysouthsideair.com

PAGE 4

Animals/Livestock Simmental/Angus cattle, 6 bred cows, calving in September; 573-0949, for more info. Young Royal Palm turkeys, $10 each; young roosters, $5 each; 762-8177.

Antiques/Collectibles 120 pieces of pottery, porcelain, ceramic china, Japanese and American; 9 Big Mouth Billy Bass; 674-6242.

Electronics

Six inch gas-powered posthole auger, very good condition, $125; Square bale annual peanut hay, 5x5 36” metal brake, excellent condition, rolls; grass hay; walk-in cooler; grain $150; 547-1519. fed beef; 263-3427. Hayward power-flow LX swimming pool pump, for above ground pool, 4’ Claas hay baler; 14’ wide weed 115 volt, new, never used, $150; wiper, like new; 326-2754. 547-4337. Fifteen hog panels, 3'x16', heavyduty framed with metal tubing, $80 each; 592-4798. Farm equipment; 693-5001, Archie Jones. Tifton 9 Bahia seed & hay, 718-7779, Pat or 592-2647, Dan.

Miscellaneous Four AT23X11-10 nearly new tires, on rims, from 3010 Mule, $200; 260-0248.

Embroidery machines, Meko 10, Dell desktop computer, 8 GB RAM, SWF & sewing machine cabinet; 1 TB hard drive, Windows 10, 326-1561. printer, monitor, keyboard, mouse, all cables, $200 OBO; 674-6242. Wheel chair, new condition, new, $500, great buy; 415-6510.

CLF Free Ad Policy (Limited to one ad per household)

850-703-5486 Air Conditioning Refrigeration Ice Machines Exhausts/Make Up Air

FOR SALE

Home/Farm

Free Estimates

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

License #: CAC1819784

CLASSIFIEDS

Repairs • Re-roofing • New Construction

(850) 228-7114 License # CCC1331040

kochbrothersroofing.com

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

WFEC publishes free classified ads in the Current Light Flashes as a service to its members. The following limitations apply: 1) Ads must be 20 words or less and must be legible, with an active electric account number at the top. 2) Ads exceeding 20 words are subject to elimination. 3) Submit ads to the Graceville office by the 5th of the month to appear in the following month’s issue. (Example: An ad arriving by Jan. 5 will appear in the Feb. CLF) 4) Ads for services & businesses are not free. Service businesses include, but are not limited to, pet or livestock breeders or stud services, rentals, baby-sitting, etc. 5) Any buying or selling on a regular basis will be considered a business. On-going garage sales & the sale of similar items on a repeated basis do not qualify for free advertising. 6) WFEC may refuse to publish any ad. 7) You may submit your ad online at www.westflorida.coop. WFEC will not accept ads over the phone.

ISSUE JULY 2021

Shelled pecans; 547-4924. 20 plus sheets of used galvanized roofing, 2x15 feet, $65; 547-9269. Fresh figs, $12/gallon, we pick; 592-8769, Charlie Johnston. Above ground pool equipment, 100 lb. sand filter, like new, used 1 season, 1 hp pump with strainer, ladder, skimmer, leaf vacuum, $150; 638-0773. Fireplace stereo w/beverage cabinet, AM/FM, turntable, needs speaker repair, $300; 638-7874. Jenn-air stainless steel gas grill, model# 720-6165, large grill; 237-2176. Local Telephone Prefixes Alford 579 Altha 762 Bascom/Malone 569 Blountstown 674, 237 Bonifay 547 Caryville 548 Chipley 638, 415 Cottondale 352 Graceville 263

Grand Ridge 592 Greenwood 594 Marianna 482, 526 Ponce de Leon 836 Sneads 593 Sunny Hills 773 Vernon 535 Westville 956

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly. Name Acct. # St. Address/P.O. Box City Phone #

For Sale • Wanted • Free • Thank You • Lost (circle one)

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 17

William Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc. • Refrigeration • Heating & Cooling • Ice Machines • Residential/Commercial

License Number: CMC1250499

For Service Call: (850) 263-3427 or Cell: (850) 326-0330

Community Calendar Home Buyer Education Class Thursday, July 15; 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Holmes County Chamber of Commerce, 106 E. Byrd Avenue, Bonifay Tuesday, August 10 & Thursday, August 12; 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Jackson County Agricultural Auditorium, 2741 Penn Avenue, Marianna

(850) 638-0790 southeasternsurveying.com

W&S Farm and Service Tractor & Equipment Repair Welding Irrigation Repair Excavator & Bulldozer Work Land Clearing Earth Moving (850) 263-8831 (850) 326-8419

Branching Out Tree Care Hazardous Tree Removal

Aerial Bucket Work • Tree Trimming Demolition • Stump Removal Mulching & Underbrushing

Free Estimates Licensed & Insured

Jeremy Hill

850-326-0266

Nick Edenfield 850-272-2161

Debbie Roney Smith (850) 209-8039 debson1999@gmail.com

This course is designed to help you better understand the homebuying process, analyze your personal financial and credit situation, and learn basic home care and maintenance techniques to maintain the value of your home and save money on repairs. Completion of this course satisfies the homeownership education requirement for the SHIP and USDA Rural Development programs. The Florida Cooperative Extension Service is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Per UF policy, all attendees must wear a mask and socially distance. Due to class size limitations, pre-registration is required. No walk-ins are permitted. For more information, class schedules or to register, please call the Holmes County Extension office at 547-1108 or the Jackson County Extension office at 482-9620. UF is an equal opportunity institution. People with disabilities requiring special accommodations, should contact either office at least five working days prior to the class so that proper consideration may be given to the request. Preserving Food at Home: Water Bath Canning Class Saturday, July 17; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Jackson County Agricultural Offices, 2741 Penn Avenue, Marianna Canning is one of the three main methods for preserving food. If you are just starting out or simply wanting a refresher, this class is for you. This course is designed to help you better understand the science of how canning works, proper food safety techniques, differences in canning methods, and how to properly preserve food using a water bath canner. The cost is $20 per person and participants will be able to take home a sample jar of tomatoes prepared in class and a set of canning utensils. Due to class size limitations, pre-registration is required. No walk-ins are permitted. Please visit http://JacksonCountyFCS.eventbrite.com to register. People with disabilities requiring special accommodations, should contact the Jackson County office at least five working days prior to the class so that proper consideration may be given to the request.

PAGE 16

Have Sawmill, Will Travel

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Full Time Realtor since 1996 4420 Lafayette Street, Marianna, FL 32446 Property Searches • Follow my blog @http://realtordrs.com

OLEN BARFIELD

McIntosh

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

(850) 593-0009 • 7524 Old U.S. 90 Ln., Sneads, FL

Efficient & portable bandsaw can cut your trees into lumber on your site with minimal sawdust waste.

638-7105

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Savings that Begin Under Your Roof

ant to save 10 to 20 percent a year on your cooling costs, increase the value of your home and make your home more comfortable? Start at the top. Air can escape (or enter) your home through leaks in the attic, outer walls, windows, doors and unheated garages. You may even be losing air through the small gaps around electrical outlets on exterior walls. You can easily find these air leaks by using an incense stick. Move the smoking stick around the area. Any air movement will move the drifting smoke. Once you find them, add caulking or weatherstripping to seal those leaks, especially around doors and windows. Another low-cost way to save is add foam gasket covers behind electrical outlet cover plates. You can also caulk into the gap around the flush-mounted box. While properly insulating a home during construction is always most cost-effective, many existing homes can benefit from some added insulation, too. Yours might be one of them if you’re experiencing drafty rooms, inconsistent temperature between rooms and higher heating and cooling bills. Insulation is available in several common types. These include cellulose, fiberglass (in blown or batt forms), rigid foam board and spray foam. We recommend foam or cellulose insulation with an R-value of at least R-38 in the following areas of your home: Attic: This is one of the most important spaces to insulate, especially if you currently have less than an R-30 equivalent value. Repair and seal any roof air leaks first. Insulate and seal ISSUE JULY 2021

the attic access, too, especially if it’s located in a part of your home that you heat and cool. Ductwork: Any ducts in unconditioned spaces should be sealed and insulated to prevent energy loss. For sealing minor air leaks and holes, especially at seams and joints, use duct mastic or other heat-approved tape. For major repairs and duct insulation projects, call a qualified professional. Exterior walls: Though it may require a contractor, adding insulation here can be worth it if your home still feels drafty after

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

continued on page 6

PAGE 5

1001 USES Portable Buildings, Carports & Garages Mobile Home & RV Supplies

850-526-3797 E WE MOV LE PORTAB GS BUILDIN

4673 HIGHWAY 90 E.

properly sealing and insulating your attic. Blow-in, wet spray cellulose or injectable spray foam insulation can work, depending on access to the areas behind your walls. Basement and floors above unheated areas: A properly insulated basement can save on energy bills while reducing moisture and insect problems. In new construction, insulation is added to the basement’s exterior walls. In an existing home, it is more practical to install insulation on interior walls. Remember to insulate the spaces between the ceiling of any unheated rooms and the floors above them, too. By helping you reduce energy use and make your home more energyefficient, we’re connecting you to savings.

MARIANNA (Across from CVS)

their utility’s peak demand period. A programmable thermostat is a winwin for co-op members and all consumers of electricity. Waiting to water your lawn or garden until off-peak times is another way you can reduce peak use. By waiting until just before sunset, you help the cooperative avoid buying extra power and less of what you put on the ground will evaporate. Timers are also a great way to control your “time of use” (TOU). This is another common phrase used in the utility industry. Water heaters, pool pumps, and irrigation systems are all large users of electricity that can significantly impact a cooperative’s peak demand if that load is not shifted to an off-peak time each day. Each of these items are perfect candidates for timers which are usually inexpensive to purchase and easy to install.

A Cut Above

Locally Owned & Operated for 25 Years

Your privacy is our business

Torreya

Mr. Fence

Commercial • Residential • Farm • Industrial

Chris & Sheryl Tate

Realty

Call us today if you’re thinking of listing your land or home!

(850) 547-5516

There is No Job That We Will Not Do!

J. Tyler Poole, Broker • 850-573-1599 Waylon Dykes, Sales Associate • 850-209-3612 Nicholas Brown, Sales Associate • 850-510-3529

TREE SERVICE LLC

Owner: Jason Morris

• Tree Removal • Chipper • 15 Ton Crane • Aerial Truck • Pruning & Trimming • Bobcat Work • Hazardous Tree Removal • Stump Removal • Stump Grinding FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

BUS: (850) 415-1217 • CELL: (850) 573-1270 YOUR

SAFETY

CONNECTION Stay away from downed power lines. They can still be energized. Never attempt to move or drive over them. Instead, call 911 to report fallen power lines.

Banking For Everyone Our accounts are designed to grow with you. We offer savings accounts for students, checking for seniors, and options for everyone in between.

If you see roadside crews, please slow down or move over when possible.

WFEC Conducts Surveys Via email, mail & online A third party vendor, Inside Information, located in Platte City, MO, conducts these on the co-op's behalf in an effort to make sure all of our surveys are legitimate and as accurate as possible. These are Legitimate Surveys These surveys cover topics like: member experiences: to 1. New guage member satisfaction during the sign-up & installation process

& member satisfaction: 2. Datebase to find out more about members, their electric needs, & other programs or services they may be interested in the co-op providing

3. Other: to guage the impact of a specific

Friendly. Stable. Flexible.

campaign or project

We understand the concerns of our members when it comes to scams. We encourage you to take every precaution to avoid falling prey to scams. If you do receive a survey or promotional correspondence from the following address, please note it is legitimate. West Florida Electric Cooperative Assn. Inside Information PO Box 1730 Platte City, MO 64079-9800

ffbf.com | 850-547-3624 PAGE 6

Being aware of peak power requirements needed by the cooperative and taking steps like the ones mentioned can help you play a part in protecting the reliability of the power grid and help control the cost of electricity. By working together we can help keep rates more affordable and reasonable, and delay the need for more power plants.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JULY 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 15

Interested in Rooftop Solar? Contact WFEC First.

Beat the Peak

nergy “peaks” occur when everyone uses electricity at the same time and the cost to purchase and produce energy is most expensive. You can help “beat the peak” by being mindful of not only how you use electricity but also when you use it. Peaks occur when the demand for electricity is at its highest – like on hot afternoons – when everyone on our system uses more energy in their homes and the temperatures are high. Members use more power on those days – for everything from cooling homes to powering pumps that supply water to lawns and gardens or pools. WFEC and other cooperatives have to deliver much more power than we normally would. Help us “beat the peak” by limiting energy usage in your home from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. during the summer months. This time period is typically when WFEC members use the most electricity. In the utility industry this is referred to as the “peak load” or “peak demand.” During these hours, adjust your thermostat settings up a minimum of three degrees for maximum energy efficiency, avoid washing or drying clothes or using major appliances, and delay hot water usage by taking baths or running the dishwasher at a later hour. You’ll be amazed how much small changes reduce the power you use without having a big impact on your comfort level. Why is WFEC asking you to help us “beat the peak” or reduce energy usage? Conserving energy usage during peak hours of consumption can help WFEC members save over time by helping the co-op keep wholesale power costs lower and stable. This won’t amount to large savings on an individual’s

I bill immediately but will benefit the cooperative as a whole by keeping costs to purchase power lower which could impact future electric rates. There are many ways members can help reduce peaks. One of the easiest is a simple change to daily routines when it comes to performing tasks and using appliances that require a lot of power to operate. Some of these were mentioned previously in this article. Another way is to install a programmable thermostat in your home. Some people try to remember to bump their thermostat up a few degrees before they leave for work each day. But many forget to do this and their HVAC unit runs all day long to maintain a lower temperature that no one is home to enjoy. Every one degree the thermostat is raised in summer months could save members 3 to 5 percent on cooling costs each month. This is a tangible monthly savings that could be used to offset rising gas prices which are impacting everyone’s budgets. Forgetting to adjust thermostats can be a “double whammy” for people that do not get home until after or near the end of

f you’re thinking about adding rooftop solar to your home or business, we encourage you to contact us first. As your trusted energy advisor, we’re here to help as you make energy choices for your home. We can answer questions you have - that includes helping you understand how the process of adding rooftop solar works and the ins and outs of connecting rooftop solar to our power system. You’ll need electricity from us on those cold winter mornings when the sun is not shining, as well as at night and on cloudy days. During the times your solar system is producing electricity, you may have excess power that will go onto our grid. We support renewable energy resources, including solar energy, that make sense for the people we serve. However, these resources must be reliable and affordable. That includes during those times when the sun is not shining, as people with solar still need electricity. Providing electricity whenever and wherever it is needed is a complex process. Generation, transmission, substations and distribution assets must be in place to provide service whenever a member needs electricity. Maintenance teams and equipment must be in place to restore power if the

YOUR

ENERGY

system is damaged. A large portion of the costs required to provide electric service are fixed, no matter how much or if any energy is used. PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, our wholesale power supplier, is pursuing a utility-scale solar project. That effort will diversify our power supply as we add more low- and zero-emission options. Contact us for more information about adding rooftop solar. We’re connecting you to power for the future.

Before adding rooftop solar …

CONNECTION

Contact your electric cooperative before you commit.

Let your trusted energy advisors offer answers and guidance.

Decide if rooftop solar is right for your energy needs.

continued on page 15

PAGE 14

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JULY 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Owens to Represent WFEC on PowerSouth Board of Trustees

eorge Owens, of Chipley, Florida, has been elected to represent WFEC on PowerSouth's Board of Trustees. PowerSouth is a generation and transmission cooperative that serves the wholesale energy needs of 16 electric cooperatives, including WFEC, and four municipal electric systems in Alabama and northwest Florida. Collectively, the members provide electric service to homes, businesses, and industries in 39 Alabama and Florida counties. Owens is self-employed, working in the cattle and timber industries. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Auburn University and is a member of various civic organizations, including the Florida Farm Bureau, Florida Cattlemen's Association and Washington County Advisory Board. In his spare time, Owens enjoys silvopasture and improving his knowledge of soil health. Owens is an active member of First Baptist Church, in Chipley, where he is a former trustee. Since beginning work with West Florida Electric, Owens has completed NRECA Gold Director training. According to the NRECA, those completing Gold Director training "demonstrate ongoing commitment to advancing knowledge and

• Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher’s heat drying cycle. • Use the bathroom fan when taking a shower or bath – this helps remove heat and humidity from your home. The tips listed here really will help save money if you implement them. The great thing is that many of these are very easy to incorporate into your daily routines and don’t take that much extra time or effort. To find out more about how you can implement small changes to save, visit www.westflorida.coop.

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Develop Good Habits to Save Energy this Summer

ummer is here and the temps are high. You may have noticed an increase in your latest electric bill due to warmer temperatures. That’s most likely because your air conditioner is running full-force to keep you comfortable. An energy-efficient home will help keep you comfortable while saving you money. Whether you take simple steps or make larger investments to make your home more efficient, you will see lower energy bills. Over time, those savings will typically pay for the cost of improvements. As your energy partner, WFEC is here to help you find ways to stretch your energy budget. For big savings this summer, develop some good energy savings habits. Little changes in your behavior can make a big difference. • Use your ceiling fans – it can make you feel one to two degrees cooler than the actual temperature. • While dusting your ceiling fan blades, make sure they are rotating in the counterclockwise direction for optimal cooling.

• Caulk and weather strip all seams, cracks, and openings to the outside. This can save you ten percent or more on energy bills. • Consider adding insulation. • Seal your AC ducts – air loss through them can account for about 30 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption. • Inspect or replace your AC filters monthly. This will help keep your cooling system running more efficiently. • Wash clothes in cold water and clean the dryer lint filter after each use. • Clean and check the clothes dryer outside exhaust vent. • Consider putting up a clothesline to save energy. • Install a programmable thermostat and program it to automatically increase the temperature when you are not at home and when you are sleeping.

Save with summer efficiency tips

• Set your thermostat on 78 degrees and use fans to help circulate cooler air. For each degree you set your thermostat higher in the summer, you can save on your monthly cooling costs. • Use a microwave or toaster instead of the oven. Also utilize your range hood when cooking. • Keep blinds and windows closed during the day and open at night. Consider installing energyefficient window coverings, too. They will let natural light in but prevent solar heat gain. continued on page 13

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PAGE 9

Save Money and Still Enjoy Fun in the Sun

will last and the less energy your any pool owners don’t realize it but pool pumps can waste pump and filter will demand. lots of energy. The energy used to operate the cleaning and filtering equipment can easily equal the energy used to power an • You can turn the pool heater average home for the same period of time. On an annual basis, the typical down when it isn’t in use and in-ground pool can account for one-quarter of a household’s energy bill. maintain water temps when it’s Pool pumps often run much longer than necessary. One reason pool in use. Seventy-eight to eighty pumps may use this much energy is because they are running much longer degrees is recommended for active than actually needed. Circulating your pool’s water does keep the chemicals swimming. Raising the water mixed and the debris removed but as long as the water circulates while the temp just one degree can cost an chemicals are added, they should remain mixed. This makes it unnecessary additional 10-30 percent. to re-circulate the water each day. Most debris can be removed with a skimmer or vacuum instead of a pump. Using chemicals in the water and • Keeping a thermometer in the pool scrubbing pool walls are the best methods to remove algae. Here are some can also help determine what temp other pool pump tips to help you conserve energy and save: is best for your pool and is most comfortable for your family. • Reduce pump run time to just 5 to 8 hours each day to lower your energy usage without sacrificing your water quality. • Use a timer to run your pool’s filtration system during off-peak hours when electricity demand is lower.

• Consider installing a pool cover. Swimming pools can lose energy in many ways. Evaporation is the largest source of this energy loss – it requires large amounts of energy. A pool cover will help reduce this evaporation rate and save energy. It will conserve water by reducing the amount of make-up water needed by 30-50 percent. Covers can also reduce the pool’s chemical consumption by 35-60 percent and reduce cleaning time by keeping dirt and debris out of the pool. If you’re a pool owner, keep these energy-saving tips in mind. You can save money and still enjoy fun in the sun.

Swimming Pool Safety Tips • All outdoor receptacles should be covered to keep them dry. This is especially important around pools, spas and other summer water activities. • Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for electrical devices used outside to help prevent electrocutions and electric shock injuries. Portable GFCIs require no tools to install and are available at prices ranging from $12-$30.

The proper maintenance and upkeep of your pool can help save energy and money.

• Make sure all electrical equipment used for swimming pools (even the cleaning equipment) is grounded.

• Consider installing a variable speed pump with permanent magnet motors and digital controls. These can save as much as 90 percent in utility costs compared to one- or two-speed pumps with induction motors.

• Electrical devices and cords should be kept at least 10 feet away from water sources such as pools. When possible, use battery operated electrical devices outside.

• Make sure your pump is sized to your pool’s requirements. The larger the pool pump, the greater your pumping costs. Use the smallest size pump possible for your pool.

• Never handle electrical devices when you are wet - either from water activities or perspiration. • Make sure there are no power lines over a swimming pool.

• Maintain efficient operations daily. Backwash pool filters only as necessary to avoid wasting water and also energy. Be sure to keep all drains clear to allow the free flow of water.

• Do not swim during thunderstorms. • To avoid electrical shock drowning, have an electrician inspect and upgrade your pool in accordance with applicable local codes.

• Keep your water properly balanced – it will ensure that it’s clean and clear. The cleaner the pool, the longer your chemicals PAGE 10

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ISSUE JULY 2021

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