LCEC – Lee County Electric Cooperative

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More than one refrigerator in your home could be pricey

October 28, 2021 – In a day and age where an ENERGY STAR®-rated refrigerator can cost you as little as ten cents a day to operate, it is wild to think that an estimated 35 million households own at least two refrigerators. Even more shocking is that it is estimated that there are more than six million households that own more than two refrigerators! Whatever the reason you are hanging onto that second (and even third) refrigerator, now is the time to consider buying the perfect fridge to fit all your needs. There are so many options when it comes to energy efficient refrigerator models which offer ample space while not making a huge dent in your electric usage. For those wanting more bells and whistles, there are even fridges that boost digital doodle pads on the door while still keeping your energy costs low.

According to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, the average “second refrigerator” is likely between 15 to 25 years old and uses about 750-1000 kilowatt-hours every year which amounts to between $97 to $130 on your electric bill. In contrast, today’s ENERGY STAR® refrigerators cost about $40 a year to run.

If you are ready to bid your second fridge farewell, consider the following valuable information from ENERGY STAR®:

  • Refrigerators and freezers contain refrigerants, oils, and other compounds that, by federal law, must be removed and recovered. Then the steel, other metals, and selected parts can be recycled.
  • Some recycling programs also capture the foam insulation inside the refrigerator doors for added environmental benefits.
  • On average, a 10+ year old fridge contains more than 120 pounds of recyclable steel!

Ways to recycle your fridge:

  • When you buy a new ENERGY STAR® refrigerator, consider buying from a retailer than has an EPA Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program. The sales associate should be able to tell you if their store has this program.
  • Contact your city’s waste management division to see if they pick up appliances such as fridges and their policies on recycling these types of appliances.
  • Call your local scrap metal recycler.

For those who aren’t to part with your second fridge, please remember these tips for the future. By getting rid of that second refrigerator, you will save on electricity while freeing space in your home!

Keep electrical safety in mind this Halloween

North Fort Myers, FL, October 20, 2021 – Halloween is spooky as is, but add in electrical hazards and it can be downright frightening! As you prepare for Halloween, keep electrical safety in mind.

Inspect all decorations before use:
Damaged sockets, exposed wires and bad connections could cause electrical shock or even a fire! After inspection, use caution when plugging in your ghostly decorations. Be careful not to overload outlets. If you are using incandescent lights, do not connect more than three strands as this could potentially blow a fuse, or worse yet, cause a fire.

Use caution with cords:
Be sure to never pinch cords, hide them under furniture, place them near a heat source or secure them with nails or staples. Any of these could cause electric shock or a fire. Unplug all cords when not in use to stay safe while saving electricity.

For more tips on staying safe around electricity, visit lcec.net. Have a safe and spooktacular Halloween!

Slay energy vampires in your home

October 13, 2021 – It may be the spookiest time of year, but did you know that energy vampires lurk in your home year-round? That’s right! Energy vampires or phantom loads are terms that describe appliances and electronics that are left plugged-in even when they are not in use. These items drain electricity around the clock! On average, Americans have more than 20 energy vampires sucking up electricity in their home right now which is estimated to add nearly $100 to their electric bills in just one year. Awareness and conservation are key to making an impact on your electric usage. Ridding your home of energy vampires is as easy as unplugging things such as phone chargers, coffeemakers, and toasters when they are not being used. Whether you are leaving for your work day or taking an extended vacation, it is essential to unplug unused appliances and electronics. For more tips on conserving electricity, visit www.lcec.net.

October is National Cooperative Month

October 7, 2021 – National Cooperative Month is celebrated nationwide each October to raise awareness of the benefits, values, and charitable outreach that membership provides. Although cooperatives serve different purposes, electric cooperatives share a common set of principles and values which benefit the cooperative and consumers alike. The Seven Cooperative Principles for electric cooperatives include:

  • Voluntary and Open Membership
  • Democratic Member Control
  • Members’ Economic Participation
  • Autonomy and Independence
  • Education, Training, and Information
  • Cooperation among Cooperatives
  • Concern for Community

LCEC is one of more than 850 not-for-profit electric distribution cooperatives located throughout 46 states. Our values are deep-rooted in the community. Our workforce pays local taxes and supports community services and causes. Cooperatives are run by and for its members who invest in the operation of the utility through electric rates. Profits, or margins, are allocated to members. 

For 81 years, LCEC has been focused on delivering reliable electricity and quality service at a reasonable rate. To our LCEC customer members, we are proud and thankful to be YOUR electric cooperative!

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