Frequently Asked Questions

How do I take care of my bill if I am going to be gone?

To keep from getting delinquent notices and to insure against being disconnected, use ebill from our online bill pay link. If you will be gone for several months you can request to have your billing address changed and your bills will be forwarded to you. Please be sure to change the mailing address when you return home.

What if my electrical service fails?

1. Check your fuses to make certain the trouble is not there
2. If your fuses are OK find out if your neighbors are out of service also
3. Then, if the trouble appears to be in our line - please call us on our Toll Free Number and report the trouble to us

Toll Free Number: 1-800-686-2357

What is WPCA?

Click here to view a document regarding the WPCA that shows on your bill.

How do I dispose of CFLs?

The procedure for disposal is simple. Seal the CFL in two plastic bags and place it in the trash. CFLs should not be disposed of in an incinerator.

The co-op is giving away CFLs to members, how much mercury content is in each bulb?

CFLs contain about 5 milligrams of mercury sealed within the glass tubing. By comparison, older home thermometers can contain 500 or more milligrams of mercury.

What if my CFL breaks, how should I clean it up?

If you should break a CFL, the risks to you and your family are small, but you should follow recommended guidelines for cleanup. The U.S. EPA recommends:

1.       Open a window and air out the room for 15 minutes before cleaning up.

2.       Remove all materials without using a vacuum cleaner as this will spread mercury into the air

3.       Wear gloves

4.       Use a disposable brush to gently sweet up fragments.

5.       Use a moist paper towel to help pick up remaining tiny fragments.

6.       Wrap the pieces up in layers of newspaper and place in a sturdy sealable bag or container along with anything used to clean up the mess.

7.       The first time you vacuum this area, remove the vacuum bag after cleaning.

Given all that messing around, it just pays to be extra careful when handling a CFL bulb.