Summertime heat might feel like it’s here to stay, but winter will be here before we know it. Temperatures have been closing in on triple digits if not hitting them all summer long at my home, meaning we have done everything we can to stay cool.
Frequent trips to the pool and some homemade ice cream have become the norm, and I don’t think anyone will be too upset — adult-wise, at least — when attention turns to pumpkin carving and sweaters.
Activities aside, I am pleased to report that the power grid met the summer power needs of the communities we serve. I commend our electric cooperative teams for the planning, preparations and work they put in to keep our communities’ lights on and buildings cool through this time of year. Now and through the fall season, it is our turn to get our homes ready for the colder weather that, yes, will eventually come.
Use the upcoming fall season as a time to clean up and put away all the summer toys. You know, the kickballs, water guns, bikes and whatever else that is spread out across the front yard and out back. It seems like they multiply each and every year.
Take the time to check your heating unit. Even though it worked last winter, issues could still arise this go-round. It’s pretty simple to see if everything is working just right. Turn on the heat and bump up the thermostat a few degrees. Within 15 minutes or so, you should feel everything warming up. If not, you should contact your local provider.
It’s also not a bad time to work on sealing around windows and doors. Caulk windows this year to eliminate air leaks throughout your home. This practice also restores energy efficiency, and it isn’t difficult to do.
Your local electric cooperative is hard at work too, preparing the power grid for the winter season. Your co-op is trimming trees and providing preventive maintenance across the service area. All these efforts help ensure that the power stays on when you need it most.
Regardless of the temperature outside, you and your family can be confident that the team at your local electric cooperative will be there, working around the clock to meet your power needs.
