Smarthub – Page 4 – SECO Energy

Energy Insider – 4th Quarter 2020

Happy New Year! We do not know about you, but we are glad to see 2020 behind us. To say that it was a crazy year is an understatement. Then again, maybe crazy is not the right word but most would agree it certainly was a year like no other.

COVID-19 prompted behavioral changes all around the world impacting the lives of consumers and businesses alike. At SECO, we instituted a myriad of changes to ensure continued operations with a focus on keeping our workforce healthy and safe. We connected with each other and our members in ways like never before, keeping the lines of communications open to serve you better.

It was not just our behavior that changed – member behavior changed as well. Across the country, online shopping and grocery pickup and delivery hit an all-time high. Consumers made a clear choice to limit interactions whether with people or things. More SECO members than ever before took advantage of online bill payment through the establishment of a SmartHub account. SECO’s Automatic Bank Draft Program also became a popular option this past year. The increase in employees working from home prompted more SECO commercial and industrial account holders to take advantage of electric bill payment options including Automated Clearing House (ACH) or electronic payment.

Today, the trend continues as members have realized the value and added security of eliminating a paper check. Savings is achieved by eliminating the check itself and associated postage in addition to reducing the amount of time to initiate a paper payment. Online options (electronic payments) are also much more secure than a paper check going through the mail.

At SECO, we understand the importance of providing you with several ways to pay your bill. Choosing the best method for your business requires that you have a good understanding of the options available to you. Perhaps you will find the following helpful:

ACH Payment: This type of bank-to-bank payment is similar to a wire transfer but ACH payments are typically free (they are with SECO). Most often a wire transfer involves cost to both the sender and receiver. ACHs are initiated online by the payor (member/consumer) to the payee (SECO Energy). Same-day or delayed payment can be arranged. The National Automated Clearing House Association (NACHA) operating rules govern all ACH transactions (facilitating the movement of money) whether by a bank, business, or John Doe consumer. Several banking system software apps are available to initiate an online payment transaction.

SmartHub: SECO Energy’s online account platform called SmartHub is a good place to start for convenient self-serve options. You can create a profile and view past bills, usage history, and more. Online bill payment is electronic and is fast and easy. Note, even if you choose to not pay your electric account through SmartHub you can still setup an account and enjoy the benefits this option provides.

Automatic Bank Draft: This reoccurring monthly payment option is also available through SmartHub. Setup is easy or if you prefer to contact your Key Account representative, they will be happy to take care of this for you. All we need is your banking information or a cancelled check. Messenger settings are available for advance notification of balance due and draft date.

Paying your bill has never been easier. Whether it is an ACH payment, SmartHub electronic payment or reoccurring bank draft, these options will save you time and money. These options also allow SECO Energy to save by eliminating the handling/processing of paper checks and fees associated with the use of credit cards for payment. Every dollar saved helps us keep your costs of power down and that is of prime importance to us. We know, as a business owner, it is important to you as well. If you have questions or need assistance in setting up a new payment option, reach out to your Key Account Representative today. We are happy to help!

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Revenue Programs
OFFICE: (352) 569-9787
CELL: (352) 303-3567
barbie.shaw@secoenergy.com

Hank Bolduc, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

HANK BOLDUC

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9789
CELL: (352) 303-3546
hank.bolduc@secoenergy.com

Ryon Meyers, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

RYON MEYERS

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9781
CELL: (352) 636-9593
ryon.meyers@secoenergy.com

Jeff Light, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

JEFF LIGHT

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9790
CELL: (352) 303-3183
jeff.light@secoenergy.com

January 2021 Sunshine State Stats

January 2021 weather was a mix of hot and cold. Mother Nature kept us guessing with high daily temperatures in the 80s and low daily temps in the 30s. Members may notice an increase in their January electric usage due to heating and cooling needs during the month.

For January 2021 the average temperature was a balmy 60 degrees, which is 4 degrees lower than the average temperature of 64 degrees in January 2020. Four days in the month reached 80 degrees or over, while two days dipped into the 30s. The highest recorded temperature was 82 degrees and the lowest recorded was 38 degrees. The average high temperature was 70 degrees and the average low temperature was 49.

Average rainfall in January is just over 3 inches. January 2021 rainfall was lower than average at only 1.04 inches for the month. In January 2020, rainfall measured less than .5 inches.

Again, members may see an increase in their energy usage for January 2021. Daily temperature fluctuations mean members used their HVACs to cool their homes during the day and for heat after the sun went down. The highest daily temperature fluctuation was 31 degrees.

February forecast:

The February 2021 forecast calls for high temperatures in the low to mid 70s and low temperatures to drop into the high 30s and low 40s. Temperatures may drop into freezing during the first week of the month. The best chance for rain is the first half of the month. Expect morning showers and partly cloudy days.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts above-average temperatures for February with below-average rainfall.

To check historical usage, log into SmartHub to view past bills and consumption charts. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.

SECO News, February 2021

Duncan’s Digest – Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative whose purpose is to provide exceptional service to our members, co-workers and communities. We are a unique business that promotes less use of our product rather than more – we’re your partner in saving energy and money.

Throughout the cooperative, we look for ways to reduce spending and waste while providing exceptional customer service to our 210,000+ members. We are adapting as technology changes as well. Surveys show that members want convenient billing and payment options (along with low rates and reliable service). Environmentally conscious members want to reduce paper waste and enjoy leisure time instead of writing checks and driving to the post office to buy stamps. Safety-minded folks don’t want the worry over the potential lack of security of mailing a paper check that contains an account number, routing number, address and signature. Mailbox thieves and porch pirates remain a threat despite the fact that they’re captured on video doorbells every day!

Currently, over 100,000 SECO accounts are enrolled in in our online account platform called SmartHub and nearly 50,000 of those are enrolled in eBill and have opted out of paper billing statements altogether. Members can view, manage and pay their bills through SmartHub. Enrolling in bank draft is another convenient way for members to pay bills directly from their bank account. SmartHub messenger provides advanced notification of amount due and draft date.

Paperless billing, bank draft and SmartHub account enrollments are green options that save money for the cooperative, too, and help us keep rates low. Per surveys, members who receive eBill are more satisfied with the email’s promptness and prefer it over waiting for the paper bill to print and mail.

Throughout 2021, members who partner with SECO to help reduce billing costs and paper waste will be eligible for a monthly drawing. Each month, three prizes will be awarded to lucky winners drawn from those enrolled in these billing options. Prizes include a $200 bill credit, a NEST thermostat and an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

There are three criteria your account must meet to qualify for the monthly incentive:

Account is registered through SmartHub

Account is opted out of paper billing statements

Account is enrolled in automatic bank draft

If you have more than one account that meets these criteria, each account is eligible to be drawn as a monthly winner.

These enrollment options are available through SmartHub. SmartHub is also available as an app on your smartphone or tablet. Members who aren’t as tech savvy or do not have a smartphone or tablet can reach out to Member Services by phone for enrollment assistance. Read more about SmartHub’s features on page 4.

We’ll publish the winners’ names in our Winners’ Circle in the upcoming SECO News editions.

SECO’s five Member Service Centers are equipped with debit/credit card processing machines for walk-in transactions. These will help us begin to phase out our existing kiosks. These third-party kiosks are under-utilized, under perform and are no longer cost effective.

All of these incentives and changes are part of keeping costs low and using technology that offers you convenience and security. Thank you for considering new options.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Happy Valentine’s Day! Celebrate your sweetheart all month long with these helpful ideas. Do you enjoy camping? The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends planning your honey’s camping trip on either February 6 or 7. If you like warmer weather, wait until March 5 or 6. Are you planning a trip with someone special? The best days to schedule a trip for pleasure are February 24 – 26 or March 24 and 25. Getting married? The best days ahead for a wedding are February 1 or 2 or March 1, 2, 28, or 29. Make your love happy by tackling your honey-do list. The best day to start a project is February 12 or March 14.

Less Coins; Big Change: Pennies from Heaven

Starting February 1, our Member Service Centers ask members to help make a difference in local communities. As the coin shortage continues, Service Centers are no longer stocking coins to make change on a cash bill payment. We ask members who visit a Service Center and pay in cash to donate their spare change to SECO Energy’s Pennies from Heaven program.

Less coins in your pocket will create big change in the communities we serve. Last year, an unprecedented number of members reached out to United Way and other local service agencies for help. SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program responded by providing thousands of dollars for bill payment assistance and dollars to local food banks in our area.

Why wait to visit a Member Service Center to donate your spare change? Enroll in Pennies from Heaven today, and SECO will round up your monthly billing amount to the nearest dollar (no matter how you choose to pay your bill). The average donation is small, only about $6 per year, but your small change equals big help for local families. You can enroll online or click on the homepage banner.

To all the members who are current Pennies from Heaven enrollees or who have made a one-time donation, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Our CEO Jim Duncan supports the program, as do many SECO employees.

Thank you for your generosity!

EV Charger Winner

Mary Maloney from Clermont is the January winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

Learn more about the benefits of electric vehicle ownership on our EV website pages. You’ll find an EV savings calculator, information about CO2 reduction, an EV and PHEV model finder and a nationwide charger-finder map. Visit our Electric Vehicles page for more details.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

Account Access 24/7 with SmartHub

SmartHub is SECO Energy’s 24/7 account access and management platform. SmartHub is available as a user-friendly app for your smartphone or tablet or on your desktop computer or laptop. A SmartHub account registration is a criterion for winning the monthly incentive announced in this month’s Duncan’s Digest on page 1.

PENNIES FROM HEAVEN: Enroll in SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program.

PREVIOUS STATEMENTS: Examine past consumption history and view previous billing statements.

NO WAITING TIME: View monthly billing statements faster (usually less than two business days) of meter reading and bill calculation.

UPDATE INFORMATION: You can change your mailing address (hi there, Snowbirds), add a new email address or update your phone number.

PAYMENT ARRANGEMENT*: Request a payment arrangement 24/7.

SOCIAL MEDIA: Click on the Facebook or Twitter icons for direct access to SECO’s social media feeds.

PAY YOUR MONTHLY BILL: SmartHub accepts debit/credit card or electronic – without the added expense of a convenience fee.

ACCESS STORMCENTER: Report outages 24/7, enroll in outage communications via email, text or voice and check the status of a current outage.

SET IT AND FORGET IT: Enroll in monthly bank draft from a checking or savings account of your choice.

GO GREEN: Suppress paper bills and reduce waste by receiving your statement via email. View the bottom of your eBill for a link to the current edition of SECO News.

New SmartHub Features:

PAY IN ADVANCE: Going out of town and need to schedule a payment? You can schedule a one-time advance payment in the amount you choose (up to $600) through SmartHub.

CLOSED ACCOUNT ACCESS: We’ve opened up SmartHub access for members who have closed/inactive accounts. View and pay a final bill or gain access to prior account history.

PAYMENT NOTIFICATIONS: Members who pay via SmartHub will now receive an immediate payment confirmation via email or text based on your SmartHub notification preference.

All these features are available for members with registered SmartHub accounts. Register your account at SmartHub today. Download the app on the Apple App Store or get it on Google Play.

*SmartHub can schedule payment arrangements for eligible accounts only.

SmartHub Word Search

24/7 account access is available through our SmartHub online account manager. Have fun with our SmartHub word search and enroll your account today.

Surgeo Loves Pets

February is the month of love, and Surgeo is asking for your help to aid domestic animal shelters and wildlife animal rescue organizations. Beginning February 1, for each new Surge MitiGator enrollment, SECO Energy will donate $5 to a local pet shelter that you designate in one of the four major counties we serve.

The Surge MitiGator takes the bite out of damaging surges and spikes caused by lightning, vehicles crashing into SECO poles, small animals, birds or fallen trees. Power surges can damage or destroy household appliances and sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers, stereo equipment and more.

SECO’s meter-based surge arrester helps prevent unnecessary financial loss by reducing surges BEFORE they enter your home through the meter. The Surge MitiGator has a beastly 15-year warranty and is designed to protect your home’s large-motor appliances.

You can lease the MitiGator for only $5.95 plus tax per month plus a $25 installation fee. The purchase price ranges from $349 to $399, with installation included.

SECO’s Surgeo loves pets. Help him share the love by enrolling in SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator to donate $5 to the pet shelter of your choice. To enroll, visit our Surge MitiGator page and click on the enroll icon to fill out the webform and choose which pet shelter will receive a $5 donation on your behalf from SECO. SURGEO THANKS YOU!

Winners’ Circle

Have you engaged with our virtual assistant Electra who can answer thousands of calls without missing a beat? In December SECO News, we announced a new contest for members who ask Electra for assistance instead of waiting to speak with a representative. Each week, we’ll draw one winner who will receive a $25 gift card.

December’s winners are:

Bruce Cramer from The Villages

William Davner from Ocala

Brenda Jones from Ocala

Judith Pastula from Clermont

Josh Sittig from Bushnell

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners. Congratulations, winners!

SECO Energy Celebrates 14 Years of Tree Line USA Recognition

We are celebrating 14 years of being recognized as a Tree Line USA utility by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree Line USA recognizes public and private utilities who take part in activities that protect and enhance America’s urban forests.

The Arbor Day Foundation inspires people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. There are five program standards that SECO Energy achieved to be recognized as a Tree Line USA utility. Utilities must follow industry standards for quality tree care; provide annual worker training in best tree care practices; sponsor a tree planting and education program; maintain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration.

Trees offer many benefits. Did you know that trees can save energy? According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees that shade structures and block winds can help reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 35%.

Plant deciduous trees to the south, southwest or west side of buildings to provide shade from the summer sun and reduce cooling costs. Florida elm and hophornbeam are native trees that flourish in Central Florida. Plant trees to shade driveways, sidewalks, patios and air conditioning units.

Evergreen trees and shrubs planted on the north and west sides of buildings block winter winds and reduce heating costs. Plantings around the foundation can also help insulate against cold weather.

To learn more about how trees can reduce yearly energy costs, visit our Right Tree, Right Place page.

Read the full February 2021 SECO News online.

SECO Energy Employees Pledge $61,433 for Local United Ways

SECO Energy employees generously pledged $61,433 to local United Ways through the employee-led 2021 United Way Pledge Drive. United Ways in ten local counties will benefit from the dollars pledged for 2021.

SECO’s 400+ employees live in or near the counties the not-for-profit cooperative serves, and employees choose the county where their donated dollars will benefit. The bulk of SECO employees live in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties, and these counties received the highest dollar amounts in donations.

The breakdown by county is: Lake and Sumter: $29,508; Marion: $20,885; Citrus: $6,023; and other counties (Gilchrist, Hernando, Levy, Orange, Pasco and Polk): $5,017. The total pledge for 2021 is $61,433.

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “SECO employees recognize that local community help is needed year-round and not only during the Christmas season. For this reason, employees take part in an annual employee-funded United Way Pledge Drive. Our employees’ pledge of $61,433 will make a big difference in the lives of local families.”

SECO Energy Senior Consultant for Civic, Charitable and Government Relations Kathy Judkins added, “This year has been challenging for some local families who have struggled through the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting shutdown. The need is even greater than before. We appreciate our employees’ personal commitment to participate in our workplace giving campaign and their dedication to making a difference in the communities we serve.”

Members with a philanthropic spirit can assist their fellow members by enrolling in SECO Energy’s Pennies from Heaven charitable fund. Pennies from Heaven will round up participating members’ bills to the nearest dollar. The extra pennies are used to fund member bill payment assistance and other local worthy causes. This year, Pennies from Heaven has supported local food banks that have experienced critical shortages and donated $5,000 to local Toys for Tots organizations.

To enroll in Pennies from Heaven, visit our Pennies from Heaven page. Members who manage their account through SECO’s online account manager SmartHub can subscribe on the app or desktop version by selecting Billing & Payment and choosing Pennies from Heaven.

“Like” SECO on Facebook and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Energy Member Service Centers Reopening October 5

SECO Energy is reopening its five Member Service Centers to walk-in traffic on Monday, October 5. To promote the health and wellbeing of SECO members, employees and contractors, SECO encourages visitors who enter a Service Center to wear a face mask.

For members who want to continue limiting face-to-face interactions, all SECO Member Service Centers are equipped with an outside automated kiosk that is available for bill payment 24/7. Drive-thru service is available as well. The drive-thrus in Eustis, Inverness, Ocala and Sumterville will operate 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The drive-thru and lobby in Groveland is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Lobby Hours in Eustis, Inverness, Ocala and Sumterville are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The cooperative offers members 12 ways to pay bills, and most avoid face-to-face contact. Members can pay online, by phone, by mail, enroll in bank draft and more. SECO’s online account platform called SmartHub is the place to start for convenient self-serve options. Log in or create an account profile today. View past bills, usage history, request a payment arrangement and more.

The cooperative will continue to limit member and employee contact in the field. SECO field personnel are practicing the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended social distancing standard of maintaining a six-foot barrier with members, contractors and vendors. Employees and members are asked to use email, phone and web conferencing communication in lieu of in-person meetings whenever possible and to practice social distancing when in-person meetings are unavoidable.

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “On Friday, September 25, Governor DeSantis announced that Re-opening Florida would enter into Phase 3 of the plan. This Phase allows most businesses to begin operating under pre-COVID-19 parameters with social distancing measures in place. While SECO looks forward to welcoming members back into our Member Service Centers, we will continue our adherence to CDC-recommended social distancing guidelines. We ask members, employees, contractors and vendors to wear a face mask while on SECO property or during face-to-face interactions when social distancing is not possible.”

Duncan continued, “While we are happy that Florida is re-opening and we are entering the end of the COVID-19 shutdown, some of our cooperative’s members are still struggling. Members who donate monthly to SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program have helped us provide funding for member bill payment assistance and local food banks during this pandemic. I am grateful for our Pennies from Heaven members’ generosity and support.”

SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program contributes funds every quarter to local United Way organizations and social service agencies. Members who have been economically affected by the COVID-19 shutdown and are unable to pay their electric bills are urged to seek bill payment assistance. Call or text 2-1-1 or visit their website at www.211.org. To find a social service agency, use SECO’s online interactive map. Members can simply input their address and search for an agency in their county of residence.

SECO members who enroll in the Pennies from Heaven program agree to round up their monthly bills to the next dollar. The extra change funds the Pennies from Heaven program. The donated pennies can be used to fund local, worthy causes and to provide bill payment assistance to fellow members. The funds are used locally within SECO’s service area. SECO employees also support the Pennies from Heaven program through internal fundraising efforts and personal donations.

If you’d prefer to write a check, please send it to SECO Energy, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585.

“Like” SECO on Facebook and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO News, August 2020

Duncan’s Digest – Pennies from Heaven – Your Pennies Change Lives

To say that the first half of 2020 has been bizarre is an understatement. To assist members during the COVID-19 economic shutdown, SECO proactively waived late fees and suspended service disconnections for nonpayment. SECO also offered members flexible payment arrangement timeframes that were above and beyond normal parameters.

SECO Energy’s member-funded Pennies from Heaven program collects extra pennies donated by members who have enrolled. These members agree to round up their monthly bills to the nearest dollar amount. The donated pennies fund member bill payment assistance or are used to support local worthy charitable causes. The bill payment assistance funds are distributed through United Way organizations, Florida 2-1-1 and local social service agencies.

SECO allocated a significant portion of the Pennies from Heaven dollars to our United Way organizations and local service agencies to provide bill payment assistance to members. Because of the COVID-19 shutdown, the need for bill payment assistance is at an all-time high.

Many members have reached out to us asking how they can help their neighbors during this crisis. We have hundreds of new Pennies from Heaven enrollees who are having their bills rounded up. We’ve also received check donations for Pennies from Heaven. I can’t thank our Pennies from Heaven donators enough for their generosity and willingness to help. Still, the fund is running low due to the number of members who need bill payment assistance.

Please consider joining thousands of your fellow members by enrolling in Pennies from Heaven. The monthly donation is small – only pennies. The yearly donation is, on average, less than $6 per year. Your small change can go far when combined with all Pennies from Heaven donations.

This year, SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program also donated $25,500 to local food banks in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties. SECO also received a special donation from The Villages Democratic Club for $3,000 earmarked for bill payment assistance through St. Timothy’s Catholic Church in Lady Lake.

If you would like to donate by check, please mail it to us at:

SECO Energy Pennies from Heaven
P.O. Box 301
Sumterville, FL 33585

I am proud to be a Pennies from Heaven supporter myself. Through internal fundraising, many SECO employees also support the program.

If you would like to contribute your small change to help your fellow members, enroll in Pennies from Heaven today. SECO will round up your bill to the nearest dollar. The donated pennies stay local for the benefit of our members. Your small donation will supply much-needed help to members who are struggling. To enroll, visit our Pennies from Heaven page. Or log into your SmartHub account, select “Billing & Payment” and click Pennies from Heaven. Your next bill will show a line item that reflects your generous pennies donation. Thank you in advance!

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Are you interested in flowers that will attract hummingbirds? The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends choosing flowers that are either red or orange. Some common types of flowers enjoyed by hummingbirds are bee balm, butterfly bush, lilies, petunias, red-hot poker, scarlet sage, soapwort, trumpet honeysuckle and verbena.

Read this month’s Florida Fauna & Flora on page seven to learn more about the ruby-throated hummingbird that is the most commonly found hummingbird in Florida.

Chomp Down on Power Surges with Surgeo the Surge MitiGator™

According to the National Weather Service, Florida is the lightning capital of the United States. Approximately 1.1 million lightning strikes per year happen in our state – this is equal to 20 strikes per square mile! Surge protection is a valuable investment.

Unfortunately, no product will protect your home against a direct lightning strike. SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator™ will protect your home’s appliances against power surges caused by lightning that travels via power lines, through the meter and into your home. Other common causes of surges entering your home are vehicle accidents, small animals contacting the electric grid and cycling of large appliances inside the home.

Are you considering surge protection? Keep these facts in mind when deciding if the Surge MitiGator™ is the right choice for protecting your home’s appliances:

SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator™ meter-based surge arrester is installed behind the electric meter at the incoming utility service line. The arrester responds quickly when there is surge activity.

Grounding* is crucial because it creates a path with the least amount of resistance for the excess electricity to travel. Your home’s ground is found at the meter and is connected to the Surge MitiGator™ ground wire during installation. By connecting the surge arrester to the ground wire, surges are routed away from electrical components.

The voltage that enters your home is reduced to a manageable level to prevent damage to large-motor appliances. Secondary protectors or point-of-use devices, are necessary for sensitive electronics and items with microprocessors.

The installation of the Surge MitiGator™ is controlled and monitored by SECO. The product is “made in the USA,” so you can be sure you are investing in a device that has a proven performance track record and is installed following applicable codes and safety standards.

The Surge MitiGator™ is designed to protect your appliances, such as HVAC, washers and dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers and other major motor-driven residential appliances. We recommend adding a layer of protection for your more sensitive devices. Point-of-use suppressors help further reduce the small amount of let-through voltage that may pass by the Surge MitiGator™. Point-of-use suppressors also help to control surges created inside the home by appliance motors cycling.

Sensitive electronics in your home include televisions, DVD players, DVRs, stereos, computers and garage door openers. Make sure when buying point-of-use surge protectors to buy devices that protect additional entryways like cable and phone lines; also keep in mind warranty timeframe and monetary compensation in case of damage. This layered approach provides the best protection in the event of a surge.

Our Surge MitiGator™ is available for lease or purchase. You can lease the protection for only $5.95 per month plus tax with a $25 installation fee. You can also purchase the protection for $349 to $399 plus tax with free installation.

Have questions about the Surge MitiGator™? Don’t delay – reach out today – email Surge or call (352) 569-9960.

*SECO Energy’s certified installers perform a visual inspection of your electric ground before attaching the ground wire to the surge arrester inside the meter can. We strongly suggest you solicit a licensed electrician’s services periodically to check the integrity of your ground wire to ensure it is in good working order.

Electrical Safety 101

Safety is SECO’s most important core value. Following electrical safety rules applies to everyone who uses electricity. Electric energy can burn and kill. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (EFSI), over 51,000 American homes are damaged or destroyed by fires caused by electrical failures each year.

Learn the basics about the electrical system in your home and how to prevent electrical fires. If your home is more than 20 years old, it may have outdated wiring that can lead to an electrical fire. Signs of outdated wiring include flickering lights, tripped breakers and a burning smell. The circuits may be overloaded. Electrical outlets may be outdated as well. Outlets that are damaged, loose or warm to the touch need to be repaired or replaced.

Home wiring is a job best tackled by a professional. Contact a reputable electrician who is licensed, insured and adheres to local code requirements. Electricians can also assist in adding extra electrical outlets that will avoid circuit overload.

Who is at greatest risk of suffering an injury or death from a home fire? Adults over 65. Young children with their natural curiosity are also vulnerable.

Electrical safety extends outside the home. You should never touch utility equipment such as underground transformers or overhead power lines. Always consider power lines to be energized and dangerous. After a storm, be especially cautious for downed wires. Stay away from downed lines and call 911 immediately. Vehicle crashes involving power poles can result in energized lines near the accident. Remain in the vehicle if it is safe to do so.

Teach children electrical safety as well. Children should never play on or near electrical equipment and never try to enter a substation. Warn children not to climb trees near energized lines and keep toys such as planes and kites away from overhead lines.

EV Charger Winner

Congratulations to M.J. Buczkowski of Summerfield who is the July winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter to win, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

While on our website, learn more about the benefits of electric vehicle ownership on our EV pages. You’ll find an EV savings calculator, information about CO2 reduction, EV and PHEV models and a nationwide charger-finder map. Visit our Electric Vehicles page for more information.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

Electrical Safety Word Search

Have some fun with our electrical safety word search. Find all the words relating to electrical safety and you’ll build on your electrical-safety knowledge.

Stay Connected with SmartHub

Members who choose to pay their bills electronically should enroll in SECO’s online account platform called SmartHub. Members can pay via debit card, credit card or electronic check – all without the added expense of a convenience fee. Those who want to “set it and forget it” can use SmartHub to enroll in bank draft. SmartHub users can view consumption history, see past bills, update an address or phone number, choose paperless billing or request a payment extension. SmartHub is accessible via desktop computers and a user-friendly app is available for smartphones and tablets.

LEDs An Energy-Efficient Choice or a Budget Buster?

LED (light-emitting diode) light bulbs are quickly becoming the most energy-efficient lighting choice for your home. Compared to standard incandescent or CFL (compact fluorescent light), the purchase price for LEDs is higher. Does the higher purchase price make LEDs a budget buster?

Not necessarily. While LEDs are more expensive – they last longer when compared to incandescent bulbs. Your savings will add up by not replacing bulbs as often. Per the Department of Energy (energy.gov), LEDs that are ENERGY STAR rated last about 25 times longer than traditional lighting options and use 75% less energy. LEDs give off very little heat when compared to incandescents and CFLs that release 80 to 90% of their energy as heat when in use. Using LEDs will make your home more comfortable and potentially reduce cooling costs.

Lighting equates to a small part of your home’s electric consumption (about 5%). To lower lighting costs, SECO Energy recommends upgrading the bulbs you use most often to LEDs. What bulbs are on most often in your home? Good choices are the kitchen, living room, or family room and bathrooms. To keep your budget in check, convert the bulbs in these rooms to LEDs and gradually convert the other areas of the home when bulbs need to be replaced.

LEDs supply a budget-friendly return on investment when chosen for frequently used areas. LED technology continues to evolve. There are a multitude of options and colors to meet your needs. LEDs are also directional and small, so they are great for a kitchen countertop, recessed and task lighting.

For more energy-efficiency tips and ideas, visit our Energy-Saving Tips page.

Read the full August 2020 SECO News online.

Sunshine State Stats June 2020

Nine days of rain in the first 13 days of June contributed to a total of 6.12 inches of rain during the month. The average low temperature was 72.1 and the average high temperature was 91.3 degrees. Even though the average temperature in June was 82 degrees which was the same average temp in June 2019, 6 out of the last 10 days of the month recorded highs of 96 degrees or greater. June 2019 only recorded one day that reached 96 degrees during the entire month.

Did you know that June is the month with the longest daylight hours of the year in the Northern Hemisphere? It also holds the longest day of the year – the summer solstice.

Although hurricane season officially began June 1st, the tropics were active beginning in mid-May with the formation of three named storms. Arthur, formed on May 14th, Bertha on May 25th, and Cristobal on May 31st. Temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico near Naples Florida were recorded at 90 degrees per NOAA.gov. Warmer water temperatures typically equate to a higher likelihood of hurricanes and thunderstorms. Per Wikipedia, Florida has never had a major hurricane in the month of June. With that said, SECO Energy urges you to take this time to prepare your home and family.

July 2020 forecast:

Lots of heat is on the horizon for the month of July. The average temperature forecast for July is 83.6 degrees with highs that reach to the mid-90s on a regular basis and lows in the 70s. Precipitation averages 5.67 inches in July. Due to the hot July temperatures you can expect the air conditioner to run longer than it has in the previous months. Remember to check your filters monthly!

To view historical usage, log into SmartHub for past bills and consumption charts. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items consume, check out our Energy Estimator.

SECO Energy Closing Member Service Centers to Walk-in Traffic

SECO Energy began its transition to normal billing and payment processes on August 6 – including disconnection for nonpayment. Members experiencing financial difficulty should seek assistance at a social service agency or contact SECO to enter into a repayment plan agreement. Late fees assessments resume on September 1.

Due to continuing COVID-19 concerns, SECO Energy has once again decided to limit its employees’ interactions with members. On Monday, July 6, SECO’s Member Service Centers will temporarily close their walk-in services. SECO is also taking steps to limit member and employee contact in the field.

While SECO Energy’s five Member Service Centers walk-in services are closed, each location is equipped with a drive-thru that will remain open and an outside automated kiosk that is available for bill payment 24/7. The drive-thrus in Eustis, Inverness, Ocala and Sumterville will operate 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The drive-thru in Groveland is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

SECO Energy’s Sumterville headquarters and adjacent compound are closing to public access and only the most essential deliveries will be accepted. SECO field personnel are practicing the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended social distancing standard of maintaining a six-foot barrier with members, contractors and vendors. Employees and members are asked to use email, phone and web conferencing communication in lieu of in-person meetings whenever possible and to practice social distancing when in-person meetings are unavoidable.

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “In the interest of our members’ and employees’ health and wellbeing, SECO has opted to temporarily discontinue its walk-in services at our Member Service Center locations. We will continue to adhere to the CDC’s social distancing guidelines. This includes limiting member and employee interactions which is necessary to ensure a healthy workforce needed to provide reliable electric service to our members. Drive-thru windows and kiosks remain available.”

SECO’s member-funded Pennies from Heaven program contributes funds every quarter to local United Way organizations and social service agencies. Members who have been economically affected by the COVID-19 shutdown and are unable to pay their electric bills are urged to seek bill payment assistance. Call or text 2-1-1 or visit their website at 211.org. To find a social service agency, use SECO’s online interactive map. Members can simply input their address and search for an agency in their county of residence. The interactive map is available under Find Bill Payment Help.

SECO members who have enrolled in the Pennies from Heaven program agree to round up their monthly bills to the next dollar. The extra change funds the Pennies from Heaven program. The donated pennies can be used to fund local, worthy causes and to provide bill payment assistance to fellow members. The funds are used locally within SECO’s service area. SECO employees also support the Pennies from Heaven program through internal fundraising efforts and personal donations.

To learn more about Pennies from Heaven or to enroll, visit our Pennies from Heaven page. If you’d prefer to write a check, please send it to SECO Energy at 330 S U.S. Highway 301, Sumterville, FL 33585.

“Like” SECO on Facebook and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Sunshine State Stats May 2020

Summer is almost here in Central Florida and we are feeling the heat. The average monthly temperature in May 2020 was 78.5 degrees only slightly lower than the average monthly temperature of 80.1 degrees in May 2019. The hottest day of the month was on May 22 when temperatures soared to 97 degrees. The lowest temperature recorded was 53 degrees on the evening of May 8.

May started seasonally with temps mostly in the mid to high 80s; however, in mid-May temperatures began to rise and the average high temperature for the month measured 89 degrees. Central Florida also received more rain near the end of the month with total precipitation at 2.69 inches compared to only 1.22 inches in 2019. Hopefully, your periwinkles are blooming!

On May 4, Governor DeSantis began Phase One of reopening many of Florida’s businesses with safety protocols in place. Thankfully, members started to return to work and leave their homes more often. With summer-like weather arriving early, you may want to schedule an HVAC technician to inspect your cooling system. Annual HVAC maintenance will extend the life of your unit and help you avoid large unexpected repair bills.

For cooling energy-efficiency, adjust your thermostat to between 78 and 80 degrees with the fan in the auto position. If you’re out and about for four hours or more bump your thermostat up a couple of degrees to save. For every degree the thermostat is set below 78 degrees cooling costs increase by 6 to 8 percent.

June 2020 forecast:

Rain is in the forecast for the beginning of June 2020, but temperatures are still predicted to be high. The average temperature for Central Florida for June in 2019 was 82.2 degrees with 5.96 total precipitation for the month. Be sure to use SPF when out in the Florida sun, it is a doozy.

Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1. Forecasters predict an above average hurricane and tropical storm activity this year. SECO Energy is StormReady and offers resources to help you and your family prepare for hurricanes and tropical storms that affect our area. Read our Hurricane Handbook for information before, during and after a storm online.

To check historical usage, log in to SmartHub to view past bills and consumption charts. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.

SECO Energy Expands Payment Options & Reopens Service Centers

SECO Energy has expanded bill payment options for members. In fact, the not-for-profit cooperative now offers members the ease and convenience of 12 Ways to Pay that include in-person, drive-thru, online, by-phone options and more.

For members who prefer to call, they can pay by phone 24/7 through SECO’s new IVR using a debit or credit card or electronic check without the expense of a convenience fee. Members can call during regular business hours and speak with a member service rep to enroll in bank draft. Those needing a convenient way to pay in cash can use a Member Service Center kiosk 24/7 or visit one of many payment locations through third-party vendors. With thousands of locations around the world, Western Union is a SECO authorized bill payment vendor along with MoneyGram and Fidelity Express. Each collect a $1.50 processing fee per transaction. Find hundreds of locations via 12 Ways to Pay.

Budget conscious members can choose SECO’s budget billing option or enroll in the MyWay PrePay program. Budget billing will level out members’ bills by averaging the most recent 12 months of use. A debit or credit balance accumulates based on seasonal usage. For those looking to monitor daily usage with MyWay PrePay, members pay for energy before they use it. No deposit is required to secure a MyWay PrePay account.

SECO Energy’s five Member Service Centers in Eustis, Groveland, Inverness, Ocala and Sumterville offer in-person, drive-thru and kiosk payment options. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Member Service Center drive-thrus remained open while lobbies closed to protect member and employee health and to reallocate employees to the call center in order to reduce hold times.

Governor DeSantis announced a phased approach to reopening Florida that began on May 4. At that time, SECO Energy began its transition to more normal business practices. The Member Service Center lobbies will reopen on Monday, June 1. Lobby and drive-thru hours have changed for some locations. Eustis, Inverness, Ocala and Sumterville drive-thru hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and lobby hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groveland lobby and drive-thru hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Payment kiosks are available at each location 24/7.

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “SECO Energy’s 12 Ways to Pay offers members choice and convenience when paying their monthly bill. The residential demographic in our service area includes young families, snowbirds and full-time residents on a fixed income. Members should be able to find a bill payment option that best fits their needs with our expanded 12 Ways to Pay.”

Duncan continued, “As of June 1, all SECO employees will be back working from our respective offices with new processes in place for social distancing. As we return to more normal operations, we are thankful that during the COVID-19 situation our mission of keeping our workforce healthy to provide reliable and affordable electric service to our members was successful. As a fiscally healthy organization, we were able to extend very flexible payment arrangements over the last three months to members who had difficulty paying their bills. Now that our processes are returning to normal, we’re switching gears from payment arrangements and are now making additional funding from our Pennies from Heaven program available for bill payment assistance through local social service agencies in each county we serve. Visit our website for details.”

View SECO’s 12 Ways to Pay. Click “Contact” SECO Energy to ask questions about budget billing, MyWay PrePay, SmartHub or other payment options.

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Archive

Duncan’s Digest – Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Less Coins; Big Change: Pennies from Heaven

EV Charger Winner

Account Access 24/7 with SmartHub

SmartHub Word Search

Surgeo Loves Pets

Winners’ Circle

SECO Energy Celebrates 14 Years of Tree Line USA Recognition

Duncan’s Digest – Pennies from Heaven – Your Pennies Change Lives

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Chomp Down on Power Surges with Surgeo the Surge MitiGator™

Electrical Safety 101

EV Charger Winner

Electrical Safety Word Search

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