Search Results

Get safety tips for the workplace DIY projects, EVs and charging, and your home’s electrical system. While electrical safety is important every month, this organization shines a light on safety issues this month including in the workplace, EVs and charging, understanding your home’s electrical system and DIY safety. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May to educate consumers and professionals on why it’s important to take safety measures when working around and living with electricity. The 2023 theme for this safety month is “Electrification: E-Mobility.” According to ESFI, this relates to the rapid advancements made to emerging technologies, such as electric vehicles. Their goal is to highlight the need for safe, efficient devices to support this increasing demand for more electrification. During this month, the ESFI is featuring education on several safety issues. These include: Workplace Safety: Avoid Common Electrical Hazards. Contact with or exposure to electricity is one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities. Learn more about these hazards. Prepare Your Home or Business for Electric Vehicles and Electric Vehicle Charging Safety. As more consumers explore the option of purchasing an electric vehicle, charging them safely is important. Understanding Your Home Electrical System. Learn more about your service panel, your wiring system and outlet and extension cord safety. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Electrical Safety. Learn more about staying safe when using power tools, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Iowa cooperatives celebrate community volunteers with third annual Shine the Light contest. Guided by our cooperative commitment to community, Iowa’s electric co-ops are excited to participate in the statewide Shine the Light contest once again in June to celebrate local volunteers. Sponsored by the Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives of Iowa, the contest will accept nominations in June and select three winners who will each receive a $2,500 donation to their local charity or nonprofit. “We’ve been truly inspired by the contest entries we received in our first two years,” remarked Erin Campbell, director of communications for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. “We’re increasing our three charity donations from $2,000 to $2,500 each this year to encourage even more participation across the state.” Member-consumers and employees of Iowa’s electric cooperatives are eligible to nominate local volunteers during the month of June. If you receive electricity from our cooperative, you’re a co-op member-consumer and we encourage you to nominate someone who is making a positive impact in the community. The volunteer being nominated does not need to be a co-op member-consumer. Minors may be nominated with consent from their parents or legal guardians. In addition, previously nominated volunteers who did not win are eligible to be nominated again. The three winners will be announced in September and featured in Iowa Electric Cooperative Living magazine. Go to www.IowaShineTheLight.com to review the contest rules. Contest entries will be accepted at this website starting on June 1. Help us shine the light on community volunteers this summer and consider making a nomination.

Does running a ceiling fan make a room cooler? Q: Does running a ceiling fan make a room cooler? A: Circulating air with fans doesn't cool a room; it makes people feel cooler by enhancing evaporation from the skin. Nearly everyone has enjoyed the relief of a cool breeze on a hot, humid day. The air movement created by circulating fans creates that same wind-chill effect, making you feel more comfortable — even in spaces cooled by air conditioning. This can reduce the need for climate control, lowering summer energy bills. Ceiling fans are particularly effective in circulating air. In some cases, running ceiling fans allows you to raise the thermostat by up to 4°F without a reduction in comfort. Running fans will actually waste energy if there is no one there to feel the effect. Therefore, it's important to shut off fans in empty rooms.

Q: Can You Use LED Bulbs in Enclosed Fixtures? A: You can if the bulb is rated for enclosed spaces. What is an enclosed space? It's any space where there is little or no air movement. Examples of enclosed light fixtures include those that have an acorn or other shape of glass shroud around the bulb and any surface-mounted or recessed fixture with a lens cover, such as can lights or fluorescent tube lamps. What's the issue with LEDs and enclosed spaces? LEDs are cool to the touch (unlike traditional bulbs) but they do generate heat. In fact, the base of an LED gets very hot and this heat is conducted into the surrounding air. High temperatures diminish the light output of standard LED bulbs and can shorten their lifespan. LEDs rated for enclosed spaces are augmented to perform well in warm environments. Be sure to look carefully on the package to make sure you have the right bulb for your enclosed fixture. With the right bulb in place, you can enjoy the many benefits of LEDs: lower energy use, longer rated life and improved light quality.

Last month’s article about heat pumps pointed out the value of air-source heat pumps as a clean-energy source, their efficiency, the ease of use for both heating and cooling your home and that cold-climate units are now appropriate for Iowa homes. This month’s focus is on saving money when you install a heat pump. Here’s how: Any time you install a new HVAC system, it’s important to tighten up your home first so your new system will reach maximum potential. That task may include replenishing insulation, caulking and/or conducting an energy audit to determine if additional steps are needed. These actions can jump-start your path to saving on your utility bills. Recognize that because of their high efficiency, your heat pump will be more cost-effective than other heating systems in the long run. The savings will accumulate year after year. Check with us to learn more about rebates. At the same time, we can also provide more details on the process and answer your questions. Review federal tax credits. Beginning in 2023, there are Inflation Reduction Act federal tax incentives available of 30% of the total cost and labor (up to $2,000), in addition to $1,200 in tax credits for other energy-saving renovations and appliances. These additional credits are available for air sealing; home energy audits; and upgrading your electrical supply, if necessary, for the efficiency projects. For more information: IRS Fact Sheet: https://www.irs.gov/pub/taxpros/fs-2022-40.pdf Energy Star: https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_credits/air_source_heat_pumps

Both before and during the spring planting season, keep safety top of mind. In the rush to the field, it’s tempting to take shortcuts and sadly, much too easy to forget an important task or practice risky behavior. Observe these safety tips for a safer, less stressful planting season. Check All Equipment This is a task that can be done well in advance and is one of the most important. According to ISU Extension and Outreach, nearly half of all Iowa farm deaths result from working around equipment. Before heading to the field, check all equipment parts including safety guards, lights, hazard signs and any other necessary components. If you are planning to use a new or unfamiliar piece of equipment, read the safety details in the operator manual. Before moving equipment, especially if you will be on the road, lock down all moving parts, including hydraulics. Be Aware of Your Surroundings Before you begin planting, refresh your memory on any hazards present in each field. Also be aware of all utility lines and have a spotter check as you move equipment to ensure it will not accidentally come into contact with the line. If it does make contact, don’t leave your cab. Call your electric cooperative for assistance. When you are on the road, be aware of traffic ahead and behind you, as well as any vehicles coming toward you on the opposite side of the road. Use Extra Care When Working with Chemicals Anhydrous and other farm chemicals are dangerous, and exposure to various chemicals can cause severe burns, nausea, headaches and possibly even cancer. To protect yourself, wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, a mask and a hat and protective glasses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the chemicals you use. Take Care of Yourself The rush of getting the field work done when the soil and weather are favorable can lead to working long, hard hours. It’s important that you get enough rest so you remain clear-headed and can cope with any dangerous situations that may arise. In addition, take stretch breaks, use ergonomics when lifting or performing any repetitive movements and take time to hydrate and eat.

All of the energy you spend each spring to create that perfect green lawn could be used to plant the seeds for a lower energy bill. A well-designed landscape can provide cooling shade around your home that reduces the need for air-conditioning. Dig this: Plant leafy trees on the south and west sides of your home to provide shade on hot summer days. The leaves will fall off in the autumn and allow warm summer sunlight to help heat your home during winter. Plant shrubs and ground cover around your house to help reduce heat buildup. Place evergreen trees on the north and northwest sides of your home to provide year-round windbreaks from outside air. Before you begin your landscaping project, call 811 to have underground utility lines marked. Knowing the location of underground utility lines on your property will help you avoid injury, service outages and costly repairs. For more information, see Landscaping for Energy-Efficient Homes from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Because of new technologies and incentives, there has never been a better time to invest in a heat pump. According to Ross Welterlen, energy services engineering director for Corn Belt Power Cooperative, headquartered in Humboldt, Iowa: “Today’s air-source heat pumps are not your father’s heat pumps.” There are a variety of reasons why it’s time to take another look at air-source heat pumps (ASHPs): They are much more energy efficient than other types of HVAC equipment such as fossil fuels (gas, oil, propane) and resistance electric units. ASHPs offer 200-250 percent efficiency in winter vs. gas, oil or propane units, which are only 80-97 percent efficient. Powered by electricity, the cleaner energy source. Rather than creating energy, air-source heat pumps remove energy from the air, concentrate it and push the heat either into or out of your home to provide heating or cooling. Able to provide year-round heating and cooling in the same unit. You don’t need to purchase a separate furnace and air conditioner. Customizable with ductless or ducted units, allowing various configurations to heat and cool individual rooms, zones or your entire home. Healthy and safe, with no worries about carbon monoxide or other gases, and the units can filter and dehumidify air to improve your home’s air quality. High performers even when temps are extreme. Advances in technology have taken the industry from a primarily above-freezing-only appliance to one that can perform well in nearly any cold climate. Energy Star now has a cold-climate standard, which was to be launched in January 2023. Heat Pump Options The types of heat pumps available may be confusing. Here are the types you will want to learn about: Geothermal heat pumps are often considered to be the “gold standard” for heating and cooling. There are two types: ground-source and water-source. While these systems are exceptionally efficient, they are also more expensive than other HVAC systems and require either a horizontal or a vertical loop system. For more information on geothermal systems, check out what Energy.gov has to say about choosing and installing a geo system. “Original” ASHPs, that is, a model not necessarily rated for cold climates, may require a backup heat source, such as a gas furnace or resistance electric heat. While the traditional heat pump will usually handle heating until the temperature dips to about freezing, an additional heat source is needed to keep your home comfortable after that point. A dual system can make sense if you have a heat source and want to add a heat pump for greater efficiency. These units require ducting. A cold-climate heat pump is now considered a viable option for homes in almost any climate, without requiring a backup HVAC system. When checking for heat pump options, you’ll want to differentiate between “cold climate” and those not rated for our cold winter weather. It’s vital that if you choose this option, you’ll need to be thorough in sealing your home, purchase the right unit for your home and hire a reputable contractor who is experienced in installing heat pumps. Also recognize that these units require ducting. Mini-split units. These small units do not require ductwork. They are used to heat a room or an area of the house rather than conducting heat throughout the living space. First Steps When Considering an Air Source Heat Pump Tighten up your home. No heating system can be effective at keeping your home comfortable during the heat or the cold if you have leaks and drafts. Contact your electric cooperative for details about rebates, energy-efficiency information and more. Additionally, this podcast with energy expert Bill McNally on IPR Talk of Iowa, offers suggestions and resources. From this link, scroll to the program broadcast on Feb. 7, 2023. If you are interested in an energy audit to help determine your needs, Green Iowa AmeriCorps based at the University of Northern Iowa, may be able to help you; while they provide audits in some portions of the state, they can provide energy savers kits statewide. Find details here. Explore options. Again, the energy advisor at your REC can provide valuable information about the various types of systems available, details about reputable sales/installation companies operating in your area and more. One question to ask contractors about is ductwork. Ross Welterlen notes that converting a ducted conventional furnace to a ducted heat pump system may require larger ductwork. That’s because the heating discharge temperature of a heat pump is lower than a conventional furnace, which may require more airflow. More Good Advice These consumer guides offer details that will answer many of your questions. Air-Source Heat Pump Buying Guide from Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) includes detailed consumer information on the types of heat pumps, how they work, how to select the right unit for your home, finding a contractor and other guidance. Getting the Most Out of Your Heat Pump, also from NEEP, is a brief guide to getting the greatest comfort and most savings from your investment. Next month: We’ll recap tax benefits of purchasing a heat pump.

Here comes the sun! Solar power is a popular way to go green, but there are a few things you should consider before making the decision to install photovoltaic (PV) panels on your property. Check out what you should do — and not do — before signing on the dotted line. Do: Gather your bills To correctly size a solar system for your home, you'll need to determine how much energy you use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an average American home uses about 870 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity each month, but your home's total usage may be higher or lower. Without this vital information, solar contractors won't be able to give you an accurate cost estimate. Examine your placement area Determine if your roof has adequate sun exposure during the day and is prepared to handle PV panels. South-facing roofs are best, but panels can be installed to capture the sun if your roof faces another direction. If your roof is in need of repair, it may be best to take on that project first, so you won't have to remove the panels to replace your roof in a few years. If you are planning a ground installation, make sure there are no trees, buildings or other structures that will shade the panels and reduce output. Consider going beyond PV Solar energy can do more than just generate electricity; solar-powered hot water systems can be a cost-effective way to generate hot water for your home. They're fossil fuel-free, cheaper, and can be used in any climate — unlike some other water heating systems. Ask your contractor if your roof can accommodate both solar PV panels and a water heating system. Don't: Ignore potential efficiency improvements Before sizing your solar system based on your home's energy needs, call our office to visit with one of our energy advisors to discuss energy-efficiency measures and strategies that might help you save money on your energy bills. Just choose the cheapest contractor The average national solar panel cost is just over $3 per watt, including installation and additional necessary equipment. For an average 6-kilowatt (kW) system, installation would cost about $18,000. Smaller contractors typically offer lower prices, but that doesn't mean they're the best option. Get multiple quotes from reputable contractors before making a decision. Don’t be swayed by exaggerated claims from contractors with smooth sales pitches. Call our office and we can offer guidance on choosing a trusted installer. Expect to go off-grid Though it's technically feasible to go off the grid by installing a solar-plus-storage system that saves unused energy in a battery for when you need it later, it's not often a cost-effective option. Research kilowatt-hour costs, credits, available rebates and our co-op’s policies regarding member-owned generation. Installing solar is a long-term investment, and it's important to make sure you know what's going into it and what you'll get in return. Our cooperative is your trusted energy partner and we want to help you make the best decision for your home or business.

What do I do if a downed power line touches my vehicle? If a power line touches your car as a result of an accident while you are inside, don't get out. If possible, drive the vehicle away from the power line. There is no way of knowing whether or not a downed power line has been de-energized, so it's best to remain inside your vehicle until the local energy company advises you that it is safe to exit the vehicle. Use your cell phone to call for help or sound your horn to signal to others that you are in danger. If someone approaches trying to help, warn them to stay clear of the area and ask them to call the local energy company and emergency personnel. Even reaching out while inside the car and touching a conductive pole or metal door outside the car could cause an electric shock. It is not only the tires that protect you, but also the metal surrounding you. This is due to the “skin effect” or "Faraday cage effect," which means that electricity will travel only on the surface of enclosed metal objects. So, while your vehicle may be electrified, you're safe as long as you stay inside. If the risk of a fire forces you out of your vehicle, remove all loose clothing and other items and, with both feet together, jump away from the vehicle making sure that no part of your body touches the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land with both feet as close together as possible, then shuffle (your feet in contact with each other and the ground at all times) as far away from the vehicle as you can.

Your electric power is generally reliable, but outages do happen. Extended outages can be inconvenient or uncomfortable, depending on the weather. For many homeowners, including those with security or medical issues, reliable backup power is more than just a luxury. These concerns, combined with a growing dependence on electronic gadgets, has increased interest in backup generators. However, proper generator selection and operation is critical for the safety of your home and family. Selecting a generator There are two basic types of generators available: portable and standby. Portable generators are fueled by gasoline, diesel or propane. Portable units are easy to use and mobile. However, they provide limited power and must be refueled periodically. Standby units are mounted on a concrete pad outside the home, like an air conditioning unit. The generator is connected to the home by an automatic transfer switch (ATS). Standby units are typically fueled by natural gas. They turn on automatically and don't require refilling. Standby units, however, are typically more expensive. Which type of generator is right for you? The answer depends on your budget, fuel cost and availability, and your backup power needs. Follow these tips to ensure safe operation no matter which type you choose. Standby generator safety Make sure the unit is installed by a qualified contractor according to the National Electric Code and local building code standards. Don't attempt to permanently connect your generator to the electrical system in your home or any building. The electricity generated will backfeed to outdoor power lines, where it can kill or injure service personnel attempting to restore power. The ATS prevents this from happening. Portable generator safety Before starting your generator, carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Generator fuel exhaust can be dangerous. Always locate your generator outside and away from windows; never run a generator inside a garage or an enclosed space. Handle fuel carefully. Turn the generator off before refueling and store fuel in a safe location. Make sure the total electrical load on your generator doesn't exceed the generator's rating. Never attempt to plug portable generators directly into an outlet or your circuit panel. Use only outdoor-rated, grounded extension cords sized to handle the current draw. Keep cords out of the way so they don't present a tripping hazard. Never run cords underneath rugs or carpet. For more information, see the Safe Generator Use guide from the American Red Cross.

Standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm), while low-flow fixtures use only 2.0 gpm or less. Showering accounts for 20% of residential indoor water use, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). That's about 40 gallons per day or 1.2 trillion gallons used each year in the U.S. just for showering. The EPA estimates that the average family could save 2,900 gallons per year by installing WaterSense labeled showerheads. Since these water savings will reduce demand on water heaters, they will also save energy. In fact, the average family could save more than 370 kilowatt hours of electricity annually, enough to power a house for 13 days.