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Downed power lines can be deadly. ALWAYS assume a downed power line is live and avoid going near it or placing anything in contact with it. Use Precaution Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away. Even more in wet conditions. Never drive over downed power lines or through water that is in contact with them. Never try to move a downed power line. Even using items that typically are not conductive may cause injury or death. If you see a downed line, call 911 immediately. It is helpful for you to provide your location as accurately as you can describe. If a Vehicle Contacts a Power Line or Utility Pole, Stay Away and Call 911 Consider all lines to be live and dangerous. Stay in place or inside your vehicle unless you see fire or smoke. Warn others to stay at least 35 feet away. Tell others not to approach the vehicle, downed lines, or anything that may be in contact with downed lines. In the Event of Fire or Smoke Do not touch the ground and vehicle at the same time. Jump from the vehicle with your feet together. Shuffle or hop away; avoid lifting your feet. When you are a safe distance away, proceed to call 911. Knowing what to do if you encounter utility poles or wires can be a matter of life and death for you, your loved ones, or anyone who responds to help.

We use electricity in our homes in lots of different ways to keep us cool, dry our clothes, cook our food, and even clean the house. Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about how much electricity it takes to run those appliances. Each time they turn on and off they create peaks and valleys in electrical demand. Why is understanding demand important? By working together, we can lower the demand for electric power. This teamwork is a win-win for the membership and the cooperative as the cooperative consistently works toward the goal of keeping the cost of power as low as possible. How do you reduce your demand? You do that by reducing your energy peak. What is a peak? It might help to think about electricity like the internet service you need to stream a movie at home. When just one device is streaming, everything works fine. But if two or three people start watching different movies on different devices at the same time, they’ve created a peak. Peaks cost utilities more because they put more strain on the grid, the network of power plants lines and other equipment that keeps you connected and your power on. Our cooperative must plan and prepare to meet each member’s demand needs, even when it’s not a daily occurrence. Equipment to meet your electrical demand must be on standby and ready to fill your increased need for electricity immediately. Think of it like filling a swimming pool. Imagine you want to fill the swimming pool with water. You could fill it in minutes using a firehose or you could fill it in hours with a garden hose. In both cases, you get the same amount of water, but how much water you get and how fast is quite different. That difference incurs cost to the system. To reduce your electricity demand and save money, think about your appliances. Take an electric range and dishwasher as an example. Make them take turns instead of running them at the same time. Or, take a hot shower when you’re not drying your clothes in an electric dryer. Keeping your demand for electricity at a trickle can help lower cost. At the end of the day, it’s simple. Lowering demand helps the cooperative and member-owners keep cost low. After all, that’s all a part of our mission: providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity. For more information, call our office!

In November, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) released a report outlining its 2023/2024 Winter Reliability Assessment. The annual assessment garners a lot of attention from the media, and rightfully so, as the topic of power supply reliability is important. Americans want to be assured that their energy needs are being met, especially as weather forecasters are predicting an El Nino climate pattern that could produce impactful weather across the US in the months ahead. Electric utilities across the country are members of one of nine regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs), also called power pools. These entities are federally regulated by FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) and work on a regional scale to coordinate, control, and monitor supply and demand on the electric grid. RTOs do not own the power grid, but they work as “air-traffic controllers” of the grid to ensure reliable power supplies, adequate transmission infrastructure, and “day-ahead” electric market coordination of wholesale electricity prices on behalf of their members. The November 2023 NERC assessment report covers three months (December-February) identified as the winter period. Key findings in the report outline that Southwest Power Pool (SPP), the RTO that serves western and some central Iowa cooperatives, is at an elevated risk for insufficient operating reserves in above-normal conditions such as extreme weather. According to the report, “The Anticipated Reserve Margin (ARM) of 38.8% is over 30 percentage points lower than last winter; this is driven by higher forecasted peak demand and less resource capacity. While the reserve margin is adequate for normal forecasted peak demand and expected generator outages, higher demand levels and outages that have occurred during extreme cold weather result in shortfalls that can trigger energy emergencies. The vast wind resources in the area can alleviate firm capacity shortages under the right conditions; however, energy risks emerge during periods of low wind or forecast uncertainty and high electricity demand.” So, while our region is highlighted as an elevated risk, the report indicates expected generation resources will meet operating reserve requirements under normal peak-demand scenarios. What does this mean for you? Winter Storm Elliott, which brought extreme cold to our region in December of 2022, challenged power grids across the US as it produced double-digit sub-zero temperatures, high winds, and precipitation producing blizzard warnings and power outages impacting millions of people. Western Iowa felt the impact of Winter Storm Elliott as these conditions hung over the region for several days, including those leading up to the Christmas holiday. With families gathering to celebrate, water heating, appliances used for holiday baking and keeping up with laundry, coupled with record levels of home heating, pushed electric consumption in our service territory to all-time highs. NIPCO, our cooperative’s power provider, set a new all-time record peak of 269.36 MW (megawatts) at 5:30 pm on December 22, 2022. This value represents an 12.97 MW (5%) increase from the previous peak, recorded on February 16, 2021, of 256.39 MW during Winter Storm Uri. Demand for power reached a record-setting level, but the energy needs of western Iowans were met. And, while SPP and MISO, our neighboring RTO, continue to experience energy emergency alerts (EEAs) and resource advisories during events that test their limits, the nation’s BES continues to evolve and learn from the lessons taught to us during winter storm Uri in 2021. Why is “All-of-the-Above” Energy Important? Energy advisories and alerts further display what we already know: the energy transition must consider all forms of generation. More renewable energy sources like wind and solar are coming online, while traditional sources like coal, nuclear, and natural gas are retiring. While renewable energy has clear benefits, we believe and advocate for an all-of-the-above energy approach. All-of-the-above promotes the idea that the United States depends on a reliable and sustainable fuel supply that includes developing and incorporating domestically produced renewable energy resources to supplement baseload generation, including biofuels, natural gas, nuclear, hydropower, and coal. We continue to work with policymakers and regulators on a state and federal level for a sensible “all-of-the-above” generation approach. While we support and encourage the development and use of renewable energy, the intermittent nature of renewables means there may be times when there simply isn’t enough of it to keep the lights on all the time. Its place is to supplement a reliable and affordable baseload generation mix. That’s why we must continue to recognize the value of and operate baseload generation plants now and into the future. Our mission remains the same. We are here to provide you with safe, reliable, and affordable electricity that is also environmentally responsible. We do not anticipate an energy shortfall in the coming months. However, as a member-owned electric cooperative, we will monitor and communicate energy supply updates as they arise. Learn More What is NERC? The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) is a not-for-profit international regulatory authority whose mission is to assure the effective and efficient reduction of risks to the reliability and security of the grid. NERC develops and enforces Reliability Standards; annually assesses seasonal and long‐term reliability; monitors the bulk power system through system awareness; and educates, trains, and certifies industry personnel. NERC’s area of responsibility spans the continental United States, Canada, and the northern portion of Baja California, Mexico. NERC is the Electric Reliability Organization (ERO) for North America, subject to oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and governmental authorities in Canada. NERC’s jurisdiction includes users, owners, and operators of the bulk power system, which serves nearly 400 million people. What is an RTO? Many electric utilities across the country are members of one of nine regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs), also referred to as power pools. These entities are federally-regulated by FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) and work on a regional scale to coordinate, control, and monitor supply and demand on the electric grid. RTOs do not own the power grid, but they do work as “air-traffic controllers” of the grid to ensure reliable supplies of power, adequate transmission infrastructure, and “day-ahead” electric market coordination of wholesale electricity prices on behalf of their members.

Iowa-based builders and contractors are invited to learn about energy-efficiency technologies at the 2024 Momentum is Building Conference, scheduled for Feb. 8 and 9, 2024, at The Meadows Events and Conference Center in Altoona, Iowa. A major draw for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC professionals is the opportunity to earn CEU credits at the conference. Momentum is Building attendees can also network with industry professionals, hear from recognized energy-efficiency and building trades experts, and gain insight on energy- efficiency regulations and incentives. Sponsored and organized by the Iowa Cooperatives for Energy Efficiency (ICEE), the annual Momentum is Building Conference also connects Iowa's construction industry with electric cooperatives' local services and resources, which serve nearly 650,000 Iowans across 99 counties. "Electric cooperatives have long supported energy efficiency efforts, and one of our goals is to help member-consumers use energy wisely," states Angela Catton, manager of member relations and development at Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative. "We invest in this conference to build relationships between cooperatives and the contractors who provide services to the members we mutually serve." "Informing contractors about cutting-edge energy efficiency and ensuring our building trades partners are up on the latest codes is important to Iowa-based electric cooperatives," said Ryan Cornelius, vice president of corporate relations at Corn Belt Power Cooperative. "For over thirty years, the Momentum is Building Conference has provided both electric cooperatives and contractors an opportunity to come together to provide rural Iowans with safe, efficient, and cost-effective home comfort solutions." Jay Gubrud, a catalyst for performance improvement who has provided insight on working together as a team, will kick off the conference by illustrating his powerful approach to improving personal and professional productivity while connecting with colleagues and clientele alike. The conference will close with inspirational speaker, Dr. Charlie Cartwright. Drawing on his deep understanding of what motivates and drives people, Dr. Charlie has uncovered the essential elements that pave the way for unlocking human potential. The Momentum is Building 2024 Conference will be held at The Meadows Events and Conference Center from 8:30 AM on Thursday, Feb.8, running through noon on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Early Bird registration is open until Jan. 26, 2024. For more information or to register for the conference, visit www.momentumisbuilding.com or call your electric cooperative.

Holiday lights can add to your seasonal celebrations, but they can also increase your risk of a house fire. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, holiday lights and decorations cause nearly 400 house fires each year. The following tips can help keep your family bright, happy, and safe this holiday season. Use holiday lights that are approved by a nationally recognized testing organization, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Before hanging your lights, inspect them for frayed wires, broken sockets, or other signs of wear and tear. Avoid connecting more than three strings of lights together unless the directions indicate otherwise. When using extension cords, avoid routing them under rugs or near walkways. If you decorate a real tree, water it every day and prevent the lights from coming into contact with tree branches. If you choose an artificial tree, make sure it's certified as fire-resistant. Look for the UL label. For outdoor decorating, only use lights and power strips that have been approved for outdoor use. Keep electrical connections off the ground and make sure wiring is clear of downspouts, railings, and aluminum siding. Fasten holiday lights securely to buildings, trees, and other outdoor surfaces to prevent damage from wind or jostling. Be careful when using metal staples or nails as fasteners. They can damage the protective insulation covering the wires. Turn off lights late at night or whenever you are away from home. Consider using a timer. While safety is your first concern, don't forget about energy efficiency. LED lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional lights, and they have a longer lifespan. LEDs are also cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire. Look for LEDs that are ENERGY STAR® certified.

What causes energy bills to suddenly increase? Energy costs vary, but here are four common reasons why they may suddenly increase: Extreme weather. Sudden changes in temperature can put a real strain on heating or cooling system, and your energy bills. Change in occupancy. Kids moving back home or weekend guests bring unwelcome energy costs. Lights are left on longer, more devices need charging and more hot water goes down the drain. Equipment failure. If your heat pump compressor fails in the winter, it triggers back-up electric coils to provide heat, which is more expensive than using the compressor. A leaking water heater will also use more energy to heat the cold make-up water. Air leaks. Cracked caulking around windows or worn weatherstripping in exterior doors can create gaps that let conditioned air out, making your heating or cooling system work harder. What you can do to save: Install LED lights. They use less energy than conventional bulbs and last longer. Have your HVAC system cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional. Repair or replace any malfunctioning appliances or equipment. Air seal windows and doors with caulk and weatherstripping. Check for gaps in your attic and basement as well. Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce hot water consumption. Unplug unused electronic devices or plug them into an advanced power strip, which automatically switches off power to devices not in use. Consider a home energy audit. A qualified auditor will inspect your home and recommend measures you can take to lower your energy costs.

An expert explains the dangers of excess demand placed on electrical circuits. How many electrical cords can I plug into a circuit? Overloaded electrical circuits are more common than you might think. Overloads occur when more electrical demand is placed on a circuit than it can handle. Circuit overloads can cause nuisance tripping of breakers, a fire, or other serious safety hazards. Easy and inexpensive short-term solutions are tempting, but they can put your organization at risk. By understanding the causes of circuit overloads and how to prevent them, you can help ensure the safety of your staff and facility. The lowdown on overloads Wires in an electrical system or circuit have a maximum amount of current they can safely carry. If too many devices are plugged into a circuit, the electrical current will heat the wires to a very high temperature. If any one device uses too much current, the wires will heat up. The temperature of the wires can be high enough to cause a fire. If their insulation melts, arcing may occur, which can also cause a fire. The National Electrical Code Table 310.15(B) gives maximum amperage for various wire sizes at different temperature ratings. To prevent too much current, a circuit breaker or fuse is placed in the circuit. If there is too much current in the circuit, the breaker "trips" and opens like a switch. If an overloaded circuit is equipped with a fuse, an internal part of the fuse melts, opening the circuit. Both breakers and fuses do the same thing: open the circuit to shut off the electrical current. If any other device is powered by the same wiring, a larger wire gauge would have to be used. If the breakers or fuses are too big for the wires they are supposed to protect, an overload in the circuit will not be detected and the current will not be shut off. Overloading leads to overheating of circuit components—including wires—and may cause a fire. A circuit with improper overcurrent protection devices, or one with no overcurrent protection devices at all, is a fire and shock hazard. Preventing circuit overloading There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of circuit overloads in your home: Get an inspection. If circuits are continually tripping or fuses are blowing, hire a qualified electrician to inspect the system. The inspection will determine your electrical needs and identify any necessary modifications to the system. Replace fuses. The presence of fuses in your electrical system is a sign of older (and potentially hazardous) wiring. Consider replacing fuses with circuit breakers. Check for loose connections or corroded wires. Circuit overloads can result from loose connections or corroded wires. These could be at the circuit panel, junction box, or anywhere in the electrical system. If you suspect a problem, contact a qualified electrician. Keep temporary wiring temporary. Temporary wiring, such as extension cords and power strips, are not designed for long-term use. If this becomes the case, consider having additional outlets or electrical capacity installed. Adding new equipment. The addition of new equipment can put a strain on your electric system and cause circuit overload. When adding new electrical devices or reconfiguring existing equipment, consult with a qualified electrician about installing additional capacity. Ensuring your electrical system meets your needs can reduce the risk of fire or other safety hazards and eliminate costly or dangerous situations for your home and family.

Do you know how to get the most out of your holiday leftovers? Once dinner is done, it's "go time". Leftovers that sit out for longer than two hours after cooking are a food safety no-no. So, once you are finished eating, start cooling and storing leftovers as soon as possible. If anything is left out too long or looks questionable, play it safe and throw it out. Label everything with a date to remind you how long it's been in the refrigerator or freezer. Watch our video to learn more! (Click the Play arrow on the lower left-hand corner of the video below) When it comes to food storage, smaller, shallow containers work best. And store everything by itself. Turkey and stuffing last up to four days in the refrigerator; gravy lasts two days. This means turkey and stuffing, mixed WITH gravy, lasts only two days. Cut turkey into thin slices, wrap tightly in small portions, and place in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it; frozen turkey should keep its flavor for up to four months. It's easy to simply top off the side dish bowls with plastic. If you do, you should eat them in less than four days. Instead, place them in small, shallow, air-tight containers so they cool down quickly. They'll last four days in the fridge, or you can freeze them and save them for up to four months. Now that you know how to store your leftovers safely, you can look up some creative leftover recipes.

Electric heaters can make your home cozy, but they come with risks. Learn how to stay safe and warm. Many people rely on portable electric space heaters for supplemental heat when the cold weather arrives. This popular appliance comes with some risks, however. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 25,000 residential fires every year are associated with the use of space heaters, and 6,000 people end up in hospital emergency rooms from burn injuries they incurred by coming in contact with the hot surface of a space heater. This winter, protect your home and family with these safety tips. Look for the safety certification logo. Make sure the portable heater you purchase has been safety-certified by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Intertek (ETL). Commit to the 3-feet rule. Portable heaters should be positioned at least 3 feet from any combustible material, such as curtains, papers, clothes, and furniture. Place the space heater on a flat, stable surface. Position the heater on the floor rather than on a table to eliminate any chance that it could be knocked over. And keep it away from areas with high foot traffic. Keep children and pets away from your space heater. Never leave a child unattended in a room with a space heater. Look for safety shut-off features. Newer heaters are equipped with a smart sensor that automatically shuts off the heater when it overheats and a tip-over switch that does the same when the heater topples over. Plug the space heater directly and securely into the wall outlet. Make sure the cord is not frayed or damaged, and never use an extension cord or power strip. Keep an eye on your portable heater. Turn off the heater or unplug it when you leave the room or when you are sleeping. Avoid using a portable electric heater around water. Most space heaters don't have a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) plug, which prevents electrical shock. Touching the heater when you're wet could result in shock or electrocution. Keep portable heaters away from flammable liquids. This is especially true in the garage or other work areas where paint and gas cans may be stored. A necessary precaution It's important to follow the safety rules when using a portable space heater, but properly installed and well-maintained smoke and carbon monoxide detectors provide an additional, necessary layer of protection. If a fire breaks out, smoke from the fire ignites the alarm so you can escape safely. Similarly, a carbon monoxide detector alerts everyone in the home about the buildup of this dangerous gas. Space heaters can be an effective way to boost the heat in your home. Make sure safe, responsible use is a top priority.

These 10 tips will help protect you and your family from falling victim to anyone trying to prey upon your personal data or information. Protecting your family from cyber attacks is a priority in an increasingly digital world. With the rise of online threats, implementing a few key strategies can go a long way in ensuring your family's safety in the virtual realm. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so we want to offer 10 tips to help protect you and your family from falling victim to anyone trying to prey upon your personal data or information. 1. Strengthen Passwords: Encourage every family member to use strong, unique passwords for their online accounts. Utilize a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access even if passwords are compromised. 2. Educate About Phishing Risks: Phishing is a type of cyber attack where attackers attempt to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data. This can be done through deceptive emails, messages, or websites that appear to be from a legitimate source but are actually controlled by the attackers. Remind family members not to click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources. 3. Set Up Parental Controls: Shield children from inappropriate content and potential online dangers by setting up parental controls on devices and apps. This ensures that their online experiences are safe and age appropriate. 4. Keep Devices Updated: Regularly update devices, operating systems, and software applications to patch security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates, when possible, to stay protected against emerging threats. 5. Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Use strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi networks to prevent unauthorized access. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities and consider using a VPN to encrypt internet traffic. 6. Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where family members feel comfortable discussing their online experiences. Encourage them to report any suspicious activities or encounters to you. 7. Monitor Social Media Usage: Teach your family to be cautious about sharing personal information on social media platforms. Oversharing can provide cyber criminals with valuable information they could exploit. 8. Back Up Important Data: Regularly back up important files and data to an external device or a secure cloud service, safeguarding your family against data loss due to ransomware attacks or hardware failures. 9. Use Security Software: Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices. Ensure they are regularly updated to provide real-time protection against evolving threats. 10. Educate on Online Etiquette: Instill good online etiquette in your family members, such as being respectful in online interactions and avoiding cyberbullying or any harmful behavior. By implementing these cybersecurity measures, your family can confidently navigate the digital world and minimize the risks of falling victim to cyber-attacks. Regular discussions about online safety and staying educated about the latest threats will empower your family to make informed decisions and remain protected.

Electric co-ops exist to serve our members, but our priority is to provide affordable, reliable energy to our communities, and like all cooperatives have 7 cooperatives principles. Throughout the month of October, you will be hearing a lot from us about cooperatives. That's because October is when cooperatives across the country celebrate National Co-op Month. Cooperatives are organizations owned and operated by their members for their mutual benefit. Cooperatives can take various forms, including consumer cooperatives, worker cooperatives, agricultural cooperatives, and more. We want to take just a few minutes to highlight the importance of cooperation, community involvement, and the positive impacts that cooperatives can have on local economies and societies. Electric co-ops, like us, exist to serve our members, but our priority is to provide affordable, reliable energy to our communities. Guided by The Seven Cooperative Principles, established by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), an organization that represents cooperatives around the world, cooperatives ensure they operate fairly, democratically, and sustainably. These Principles include: 1. Voluntary and Open Membership: Cooperatives are open to all individuals who can benefit from or contribute to the cooperative's activities, regardless of their background or status. Membership is a voluntary choice. 2. Democratic Member Control: Cooperatives are controlled by their members, who actively participate in decision-making and have an equal say in the cooperative's policies and operations. Each member typically has one vote. 3. Member Economic Participation: Members of cooperatives contribute to and democratically control the capital of the cooperative. Surplus funds generated by the cooperative are often distributed among members in proportion to their level of participation or contribution. 4. Autonomy and Independence: Cooperatives are independent organizations that are self-governed by their members. They may enter into agreements with other entities, but decisions are made in the best interests of the cooperative and its members. 5. Education, Training, and Information: Cooperatives provide education and training to their members, employees, and the broader community to enhance their understanding of cooperatives and their role in society. 6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives: Cooperatives work together in solidarity and collaboration to strengthen the cooperative movement and achieve common goals. This principle promotes mutual support and shared resources among cooperatives. 7. Concern for Community: Cooperatives contribute to the sustainable development of their communities by working for their social, economic, and environmental well-being. They prioritize the needs and aspirations of the community in their actions. These principles are a foundational framework for cooperatives worldwide, guiding their actions and ensuring that they operate in line with values of democracy, equity, and community development. This October, as we celebrate Co-op Month, we're focusing on all the ways "Co-ops Grow" for their members. Co-ops Grow Communities. Co-ops help communities grow by promoting economic empowerment, fostering community engagement and supporting the unique needs of co-op members. "Concern for Community" is one of our core principles––and being community-focused is essential to everything we do. Co-ops Grow Together. Co-ops are all about cooperation, not competition. That's why electric co-ops work together to share lessons learned, successful strategies, and better ways to serve our members. We're better when we grow together! Co-ops Grow Tomorrow's Leaders. Electric co-ops serve as fertile ground for growing tomorrow's leaders through various youth engagement programs. Whether through school demonstrations, community events, or the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour program, we're committed to providing opportunities for local youth to learn and thrive in our community and beyond. Co-ops Grow for You. At our co-op, your satisfaction is our number one goal. It's why we were formed many years ago to fulfill a uniquely local purpose. We've come a long way since then, and your needs continue to evolve. That's why we'll never stop growing for you! The essence of a cooperative lies in its members, and we are incredibly fortunate to have such an engaged and supportive community. Your involvement, ideas, and feedback allow us to grow in our service to you through continued improvements and innovations that benefit us all. This National Co-op Month, as we celebrate the cooperative principles that underpin our shared journey, we want to extend our sincerest appreciation. It is your partnership that strengthens us, and it is your satisfaction that fuels our dedication. Thank you for entrusting us with your energy needs. We look forward to many more years of serving you, growing together, and contributing to the prosperity of our community.

Regular air filter changes should be part of your home maintenance program. How often should I change my furnace filter and what types are available? To check an air filter, turn your heating or cooling system off at the thermostat and pull the filter out. Hold it up to a light source or tap one edge on the floor. If you see significant buildup of dust or dirt, it's time to put that filter to rest. Regular air filter changes should be part of your home maintenance program to maintain healthy indoor air quality and to keep your heating and cooling systems running at peak efficiency. Change your filter every three months or according to manufacturer's recommendations. When replacing a filter, pay attention to the recommended airflow direction typically indicated by a printed arrow on the side of the filter. There are several types of disposable air filters available. Panel filters, consisting of tangled fiberglass strands, are the most common. These filters are low in price, but not very effective at filtering the air. More expensive pleated filters made with woven polyester or nonwoven spunbond material provide a larger filtering surface. Nonwovens can be electrostatically charged to improve particle capturing without decreasing airflow. Replaceable pocket filters consist of parallel bags or "pockets" of thick polymer material arranged side-by-side with the pockets open to incoming air. The pockets make it difficult for dust, dirt, germs, and water droplets to pass through, but result in higher airflow resistance. Deep rigid cell filter boxes (typically 4 inches thick) reduce fan energy consumption without hindering airflow. They also last longer than other types of filters. Another option is a permanent washable air filter that must be cleaned periodically to deliver the best possible filtration and optimal airflow.