SECO News, January 2017
Duncan’s Digest: Toys for Tots and United Way
The Christmas spirit was upon us all as we participated in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. SECO’s employees helped me load hundreds of toys, donated by employees and members, for local children.
Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys and distributes as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community. As a Marine myself before my hair turned gray, I know thatToys forTots is a special program for children in need. Hundreds of children will wake up to Christmas presents under the tree, thanks to the generosity of our employees and members.
During SECO’s 2017 United Way campaign, employees opened their checkbooks and donated generously. SECO employees pledged $50,171 for United Way’s campaign for local communities.
United Way improves the quality of life for millions of people. I am grateful to work with employees who have the power and goodwill to improve the communities we serve. SECO employees are a generous bunch of folks, and their efforts are applauded.
From my family to yours, I wish you a healthy, Happy New Year!
New Year, New Efficiency Tool
Happy New Year! What are your resolutions this year? Start off on the right foot with SECO’s new online Energy Estimator tool.
The estimator helps members understand the amount and cost of the energy that appliances, lighting, and other electronics use in their home. It calculates your monthly refrigeration costs, the price for each load of laundry, the annual amount of energy your oven uses and more. Submit your results and within minutes you will receive an email comparing your usage to the average Central Florida household and tips to save energy and money.
SECO has three great prizes up for grabs for members who explore the Energy Estimator and increase their energy efficiency IQ. After completing the Energy Estimator and emailing your results, your name will be entered into a random drawing to win a $300 bill credit, a package of energy efficiency tools that includes a $100 Lowe’s gift card, and a programmable Wi-Fi thermostat. Winners will be notified via email on February 16.
Make a resolution to reduce your energy usage and lower your energy bill. Here’s to an Energy Efficient New Year!
Protection Begins at the Meter
Today’s appliances are sensitive to power surges caused by lightning, accidents, animals and more. Surges can cause catastrophic damage or degrade appliance circuitry over time.
Protection begins at the meter. SECO’s meter base surge arrester reduces most surges to a safe level before they enter your home. The arrestor helps protect large motor appliances like the air conditioner, washer and dryer, refrigerator, stove and dishwasher.
Beat the upcoming storm season rush and subscribe to SECO’s meter-based surge protection by February 15 for a chance to win a $100 Lowe’s gift card. All SECO members currently enrolled in SECO’s surge protection are also eligible to win.
Enroll online or call us at (800) 732-6141. A random winner will be chosen February 15.
Does a Fireplace Save Energy?
Wood burning fireplaces provide a soothing ambience and warmth, but can actually increase your energy usage. Fireplaces pull oxygen and heat from other areas within the home. Approximately 30% of heat goes up the chimney, creating a drop in temperature, prompting your central heating unit to cycle more frequently.
Installing glass doors or a fireback can increase your fireplace’s efficiency. Glass doors act as a barrier to reduce the amount of indoor air escaping through the chimney. In the summer, glass doors help prevent warm air from entering into your home. Firebacks are decorative, cast iron plates that when placed at the back of the fireplace absorb heat and radiate it back into the room.
Although glass doors and firebacks may improve a fireplace’s efficiency, your best course of action is to use your fireplace when it’s just a little chilly and forgo operating your central heating unit during that time. Learn more about SECO’s products and services and energy savings online.
SECO Scholars
For over 20 years, SECO Energy has awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships – launching young scholars on their path to a college education. Once again, SECO’s Board of Trustees has approved up to $36,000 in scholarships for twelve deserving high school seniors.
To be eligible, the student must:
- Reside in a home served by SECO.
- Graduate high school by the end of the current school year.
- Provide proof of acceptance to an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school by the end of 2017.
- Plan to be enrolled as a full-time college student.
Applications are available beginning January 4, at SECO’s five Member Service Centers in Lake, Sumter, Marion and Citrus counties, area high school guidance offices, at the SECO corporate offices in Sumterville and online.
To be considered, completed applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on March 31. Applications may be dropped off at any SECO Member Service Center or mailed to:
SECO Energy
Attn: Youth Scholarship
330 South U.S. Highway 301
Sumterville,FL 33585-0301
Winners will be notified by phone or mail on or about April 28. Learn more about SECO’s scholarship program online or call (352) 569-9561.
Read the full January 2017 SECO News here.
