October 2024 EnergyWiseSM Tip: Water Heaters

By: NPPD Energy Efficiency Program Manager Cory Fuehrer Andreas Stihl became known as “The Father of the Modern Chainsaw” when he patented and began production of his first electric-powered unit in 1926. While advertised as portable, the saw weighed a whopping 116 pounds. Surprisingly, the first gas-powered chainsaw was not marketed until the following year by Emil Lerp. It weighed 125 pounds. It was not until the end of World War II that all chainsaws had to be carried and used by two people. Finally, in 1950, the first one-person chainsaw became commercially available. Although these saws were initially gas-powered, Stihl began producing corded electric models in the late 1960s. Due to their limited power range, need for an outlet nearby and safety risk associated with cutting their power cord, they were not very popular. But by the late 2010s, battery technology advanced far enough to place cordless electric chainsaws ahead of gas-powered saws in many ways. Today, we can consider these advantages: Fueling – Simply slide the battery into the unit. This eliminates the need to mix gasoline with two-stroke oil, which often leads to unintended spill. Because cordless chainsaws do not use a gasoline mixture, you never have to worry about old fuel gumming up or fouling a carburetor during long storage periods. To refuel a cordless unit, recharge the battery and re-insert it into the saw. Starting – Have you ever grown frustrated trying to start a stubborn gas-powered saw by pumping the primer bulb, flicking the choke and pulling the cord again with no results? You will find that a cordless electric chainsaw starts the second you pull the throttle trigger. Less vibration – Electric motors used in cordless chainsaws generate significantly less vibration than combustion engines used in gas-powered saws, which reduces the amount of hand and arm fatigue created during extended cutting sessions. Less maintenance – There are no spark plugs, air filters, or carburetors to clean and replace on a cordless electric chainsaw. For smooth operation, you only need to keep the chain sharp and add chain oil when the reservoir runs low. Reduced noise – Cordless electric chainsaws operate significantly quieter than gas engines by averaging 80 to 95 decibels compared to 100 to 115 decibels for gas-powered saws. Several cordless models are rated at 70 decibels or less, which is comparable to the average face-to-face conversation. Lightweight – Though cordless electric chainsaws have the added weight of a rechargeable battery. The absence of a heavy engine block and a full gas tank makes them lighter than their gas-powered counterparts. In addition, there is no need to take along a gas can for large cutting assignments. Size variety – While the largest one-person chainsaws continue to be gas-powered, cordless electric models are available that can compare to those with a 28-inch cutting bar and driven by an 80 cc engine. On the other end of the spectrum, some with a 4-inch cutting bar are small enough to carry in a coat pocket. If your local electric utility is an EnergWiseSM partner, you could be eligible for an incentive of up to 20% of the cost for a cordless electric chainsaw, batteries and a charger. Contact your local utility or visit www.energywisenebraska.com for additional details. In partnership with Nebraska Public Power District, your local utility wants to help you get the most value from the energy needed to get things done.

It’s a common belief that closing vents or doors in unused rooms will save energy during the summer. In reality, this approach can do more harm than good. Most home cooling systems are designed to distribute air evenly throughout the house. When vents are closed, pressure builds up in the ductwork, which can reduce efficiency and strain the system. Instead of saving energy, the air conditioner may work harder to compensate. Closing interior doors can create similar issues by restricting airflow and causing temperature imbalances. Some rooms may become too warm, while others feel overly cooled. A better approach is to keep vents open and ensure air can circulate freely. If certain areas are consistently uncomfortable, it may point to a larger issue, such as insulation gaps or duct problems, which should be addressed directly. Energy savings come from improving system performance, not restricting it. Keeping air moving as designed is usually the most efficient path.

By: NPPD's Energy Efficiency Program Manager Cory Fuehrer Are you looking for a quick and easy way to keep a small area comfortable during a heat wave or cold snap? Using electric space heaters can be expensive to run and window air conditioners can be difficult to install. Instead, consider purchasing a portable heat pump and accomplish heating and cooling with one single unit. Portable heat pumps work by using electricity and refrigerant to move heat rather than generating it directly. During the heating season, heat is extracted from outside air and transferred indoors through one or two hoses mounted in a window opening. Single-hose units will pull in air from inside the room and exhaust it outside. Dual-hose portable heat pumps will have one hose for pulling air from outside, and a separate hose for expelling air. Dual-hose units recycle indoor air and do not exhaust it outdoors. For this reason, dual-hose units are typically more efficient than single-hose units. When temperatures climb outside, portable heat pumps can reverse this process to provide cooling. Though they are not the perfect solution for all space conditioning needs, portable heat pumps offer advantages. They are: Mobility Unlike window air conditioners, ductless mini split or central air-cooling systems, portable heat pumps are easy to move from room to room. Most have wheels to make one-person relocation simple. Easy to Install Nearly all portable heat pumps come with a window kit that their one or two hoses attach to. By closing the window around the kit’s frame, making provisions for water condensing out of the air and plugging the unit into a standard wall socket, it is ready to heat or cool. No professional installation is required. Inexpensive While comparable in price to a window air conditioner, portable heat pumps are more affordable than ductless mini split or central air-cooling systems. Efficient When it comes to heating, portable heat pumps are two to three times more efficient electric space heaters. While permanently installed cooling systems tend to be more efficient, portable heat pumps are just as, if not more efficient, than window air conditioners, especially when selecting an Energy Star®-certified model. While a portable heat pump is an excellent, energy-efficient choice for renters, temporary use or small-space climate control (approximately 300 to 600 square feet) where installing a permanent unit is not allowed, they do come with some disadvantages: Noise Because the operating components are housed inside the unit, they tend to be louder than ductless mini split or central air-cooling systems. However, they are usually quieter than window air conditioners while operating around 45 to 55 decibels, which is comparable to a quiet-to-normal conversation. Limited Heating Capacity As the temperature drops outside, the amount of heat required to keep the indoor area comfortable increases. Portable heat pumps also do not have the ability to defrost themselves during freezing weather. Therefore, most stop operating when outdoor temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Though that covers about half of the annual hours when heating is needed in our homes, Additional heat sources are necessary when the mercury dips lower. Window Compatibility While hose kits quickly mount into the openings of single-hung, double-hung and sliding glass windows, modifications to the kit’s frame must be made to fit into casement-style windows. Humidity Control Because single-hose units create a negative pressure inside, they pull in unconditioned air from outside through cracks and openings throughout the home. Therefore, a double-hose model is necessary to provide dehumidification. Condensation When operating, condensation (water vapor) collects in a reservoir. This must be manually dumped every few hours or drained through a line. If not, the unit will shut off. To address this, some units have an internal pump to push the condensate through a drain line that exits through the window kit. Limited Capacity Portable heat pumps can only heat or cool a single room at a time. Depending on the size of the room, they may struggle to do so. Larger rooms are more likely to have hot and cold spots that create a less-than-comfortable environment. While portable heat pumps provide a great solution to temporary heating and cooling needs in a single room, other types of heat pump systems bring greater efficiency and comfort when a longer-term solution is desired. In partnership with Nebraska Public Power District, your local public power provider wants to help you gain the most value from the energy needed to keep comfortable inside. For more energy-saving ideas, including EnergyWiseSM energy efficiency financial incentives, contact your local utility or visit www.energywisenebraska.com .

Summer grilling season brings people outdoors, but it also introduces electrical safety risks that are easy to overlook. · If you’re using an electric grill, make sure it’s plugged into a properly rated outdoor outlet. Ground fault circuit interrupter outlets, or GFCIs, are especially important in outdoor spaces, as they help prevent shocks during wet weather. · Avoid using indoor extension cords outside. Outdoor-rated cords are designed to handle heat and moisture. Even then, try locating your outdoor appliances and lights as close as possible to outlets. And if you must use extension cords, place them where people won’t trip over them. · Be mindful of lighting and additional appliances on decks and patios. Plugging too many devices into a single outlet can overload the circuit, increasing the risk of overheating. · Keep all electrical connections away from water sources, including pools, sprinklers, sinks and wet surfaces. If cords or outlets become damaged, stop using them until they can be repaired or replaced. A few precautions can help ensure your outdoor cooking setup stays safe all season long.

Southwest Public Power District has an opening for the position of Engineering Technician. Duties include, but are not limited to, assisting in the maintenance of the District’s geographic information system (GIS), system planning and improvements, and implementing technology as required to improve the distribution systems. The District operating hours are a compressed work schedule with every other Friday off. This position requires passing a pre-employment drug and alcohol test. Southwest Public Power District offers an excellent wage and benefit package, including paid vacation, sick leave, paid health insurance, and funded retirement plan. Southwest Public Power District’s headquarters office is in Palisade, Nebraska. The region’s schools, small communities, and recreational opportunities make it a great place to live and raise a family. Interested individuals must email a resume, including job training and three references to: jobs@swppd.com . Southwest Public Power District is an equal opportunity employer. Position will be open until filled. 

Southwest Public Power District has an opening for the position of Journeyman power line worker. Duties include, but are not limited to, maintenance and construction of overhead and underground distribution and sub-transmission facilities. The District operating hours are a compressed work schedule with every other Friday off. After-hours and on-call duty are required. This position requires heavy lifting, pole climbing, and other strenuous activity and working well with other crew members. Must be able to complete associated written and electronic documentation. Must possess a valid Class B CDL and pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test. Southwest Public Power District offers an excellent wage and benefit package, including paid vacation, sick leave, paid health insurance, and funded retirement plan. Southwest Public Power District’s headquarters office is in Palisade, Nebraska. The region’s schools, small communities, and recreational opportunities make it a great place to live and raise a family. Interested individuals must email a resume, including job training and three references to: jobs@swppd.com . Southwest Public Power District is an equal opportunity employer. Applications due by June 30th, 2026.

Sometimes, your electric bill might creep up a bit in June, even before the hottest days of summer arrive. The increase often has less to do with extreme heat and more to do with how cooling systems operate early in the season. Air conditioning units that have been idle for months may not run at peak efficiency right away. Dust buildup, clogged filters or minor maintenance issues can make systems work harder from the start. Humidity also plays a role. Early summer air often carries moisture, which makes homes feel warmer and prompts air conditioners to run longer to keep the house cool. Longer daylight hours can contribute as well. More time at home with lights and electronics in use adds to overall energy consumption. To reduce early-season spikes, replace air filters before you ever switch on your a/c. At the same time, schedule routine maintenance and use ceiling fans to help circulate the cool air around your rooms. Setting your thermostat a few degrees higher than usual can also help manage costs without sacrificing comfort. Understanding why June bills climb is the first step toward keeping them in check.

Southwest Public Power District will be closed Monday, May 25th, in observance of Memorial Day. Normal business hours will resume Tuesday, May 26th. If you need assistance during this time, please call (308)285-3295 to speak with an on-call representative.

As vacation season gets started, it’s easy to overlook the small appliances at home that keep using electricity while you’re away. A quick pre-vacation checklist can give them a vacation, too—and prevent them from wasting energy while nobody’s home. So, before you load up the car or head to the airport, start unplugging. First, the kitchen. Ice makers, second refrigerators and extra freezers can quietly run nonstop. If they’re empty or nearly empty, consider turning them off. Adjust your main refrigerator to a slightly higher temperature but keep it within safe food storage limits. Around the house, unplug electronics like televisions, gaming systems, computers and coffee makers. Better yet, connect them to a surge-protecting power strip so you can unplug them all at once. Many devices draw power even when not in use if they’re turned off but still plugged in. Water-related appliances are another common miss. Turn off or lower settings on electric water heaters if recommended by the manufacturer. Finally, adjust your thermostat. There’s no need to keep your home as cool as when you’re there, but don’t turn the system off entirely. A moderate setting helps manage humidity.