THE MESSENGER
A Publication for North Arkansas Electric Cooperative Members
A bright Christmas
LIHEAP helps qualified with electric bills
The federal government’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides help for qualifying members with their energy costs during the winter.
LIHEAP is administered by community action agencies. In NAEC’s service area, those are Ozark Opportunities and Northcentral Arkansas Development Council (NADC).
Winter assistance is expected to be available in January. We encourage members needing assistance to reach out to the agency serving their county for more information.
Ozark Opportunities serves residents in Baxter and Marion counties. Northcentral Arkansas Development Council serves residents in Fulton, Izard, Sharp and Stone counties. (Please see sidebar below for the websites and phone numbers.)
The amount of help available varies based on a member’s income, number of people in the home and other factors.
Northcentral Arkansas Development Council nadcinc.org
• Fulton County — (870) 895-3628
• Izard County — (870) 368-4329
• Sharp County — (870) 994-7353
• Stone County — (870) 269-4381
Ozark Opportunities ozarkopp.org
• Baxter County — (870) 425-5118
• Marion County — (870) 449-6250
BEST BETS FOR
Winter Savings
Energy consumption spikes during winter months as we spend more time indoors and heating systems work overtime. You can help reduce demand and strain on the electric grid by conserving during peak energy times. Reducing energy use will also help lower your energy bills.
UNPLUG WHEN POSSIBLE
Turn o unnecessary lights and electronics when you aren’t using them.
POLE INSPECTIONS — NAEC has contracted with Osmose to inspect poles in areas of Baxter and Izard counties. Affected members will receive a postcard. Osmose employees will drive trucks and wear apparel with the Osmose logo. Work should be done in April.
MAINTAIN HEATING EQUIPMENT
Maintain your heating system by replacing dirty, clogged filters and scheduling an annual inspection for necessary maintenance.
ELIMINATE DRAFTS AND AIR LEAKS
Seal air leaks and drafts around windows and exterior doors.
USE APPLIANCES WHEN ENERGY DEMAND IS LOWER
Run large appliances like clothes washers, dryers and dishwashers early in the morning or before you go to bed.
LOWER THE THERMOSTAT
Home heating accounts for a large portion of energy consumption. Adjust your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting (68 degrees or lower).
ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP OF THE MONTH
Ensure your home is well sealed and properly insulated to reduce the need for excessive heating. Seal air leaks around your home and add insulation where needed to save up to 10% on annual energy bills. Install weather stripping on exterior doors and apply caulk around windows. Check attic insulation levels and hire a qualified contractor if additional insulation is needed. — energystar.gov
Average Daily High: 60.02° compared to 58.61° in 2022
Average Daily Low: 42.42° compared to 34.51° in 2022
Total Rainfall Amount: 6.04” compared to 3” in 2022
Warmest Day: Nov. 8, 81.75°
Coolest Day: Nov. 1, 26.64°