Industry

For centuries, fireplaces have been at the heart of the home, providing warmth, ambiance and a focal point for gathering. And while they’ve been cherished for their timeless appeal, traditional wood-burning fireplaces can be difficult to maintain and operate. Fortunately, electric fireplaces capture the charm of a crackling fire without the hassle. If you're thinking about adding a touch of warmth and beauty to your home, here are four reasons why an electric fireplace might be the ideal solution.

Winter driving is not for the faint of heart. That's why it's always best to stay home when snow and ice make driving potentially hazardous. But for those times when you must venture out regardless of the road conditions, these tips will help ensure that you return safely.

 Rob Weisenburger

 Engineering Supervisor

Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation across western North Carolina in late September, leaving thousands without power.

Not many workers are still on the job at nearly 75 years young, but Willie Wiredhand isn't your ordinary employee. Willie is the longtime mascot of America's Rural Electric Cooperatives, and he's been working hard for us since 1950.

Misleading claims of no electric bill. False promises of free solar panels or tax rebate checks. Posing as an electric cooperative representative or co-op partner.

These are some of the deceptive practices that co-ops and the federal government are warning consumers about under a growing number of residential solar scams.

By Todd Taylor, IT Manager

Do you have a second refrigerator in your garage or basement? If so, it's got plenty of company. About 34% of American households have a second refrigerator, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, a number that's more than doubled over the last 20 years.

That's not cool when you consider that many of these devices are 10 years old or older, and very inefficient by today's standards. While technology advances have made today's refrigerators more efficient than ever, the growing trend of homeowners buying a new model and keeping the old is negating those efficiency gains.

Outdoor grilling is a popular summer activity. It's a great way to cook flavorful meals and spend time with friends and family.

However, if not treated carefully, grills can be dangerous. Fire departments across the country respond to an average of 9,600 home fires a year involving grills, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Leading causes of grill fires are a failure to clean, having the grill too close to something flammable and leaving the grill unattended.

May is National Electrical Safety Month, which is held every year to raise awareness about the importance of using electricity safely. While the electric service in your home is generally safe and reliable, it can be dangerous if used improperly. Follow these tips to keep your home and family safe.