Summertime heat might feel like it’s here to stay, but winter will be here before we know it. At times, temperatures have been closing in on triple digits all summer long in our community, meaning we have done everything we can to stay cool.
Frequent trips to the pool and some homemade ice cream have become the norm around here, 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 Powell Valley Electric Cooperative’s power grid met the summer power needs of the communities we serve. I commend our team 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 will eventually come.
I use the upcoming fall season as a time to clean up and put away all the summer toys — the kick balls, water guns, bikes and whatever else that is spread out across both the front and back yards. It seems like they multiply each and every year.
I also take the time to check our heating unit. Just because it worked last winter doesn’t mean it won’t have any issues this go-round. It’s pretty simple to see if everything is working just right. I 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 heat pump contractor.
It’s also not a bad time to work on sealing windows and doors. I am considering caulking windows this year to eliminate air leaks throughout our home. This practice also restores energy efficiency, and it isn’t difficult to do.
Powell Valley Electric Cooperative is hard at work too, preparing the power grid for the winter season. Our team is trimming trees and providing preventive maintenance across the cooperative’s service area. All these efforts help us 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 Powell Valley Electric Cooperative will be here, working around the clock to meet your power needs.
— Brad Coppock
