Customer Newsletter, August 2010

The World's Most Expensive Dirt

The most expensive dirt in the world may lurk in your home's heating and cooling system. If neglected, dust collecting the equipment's air filter could increase your energy bills hundreds of dollars every year and result in costly repair or replacement costs.

Dirty filters cause a system to work harder and break down faster. That's because unfiltered dust and grime work into critical parts, creating friction that causes unnecessary wear and eventually, failure.

As you move around your home you drive dust into the air from carpets, drapes, and furniture. Pets generate dust particles by shedding, grooming, and tracking in dirt from outside.

Regardless of where it comes from, dust trapped in a heating and cooling system air filter leads to several problems, including:
  • Reduced air flow in the home and up to 15 percent higher operating costs.
  • Costly duct cleaning or replacement.
  • Lowered system efficiency.
Every time a system with a dirty filter kicks on, the day of reckoning--total replacement--draws closer. To avoid this expense, change filters monthly when a system's in regular use. Discuss cleaning the unit and ductwork with your heating and cooling service professional.

While most types of filters must be replaced, a few filters are reusable. They're available in a variety of types and efficiencies, rated by a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). MERV, a method developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, tests filter effectiveness. The higher the MERV number, the higher the filter's effectiveness at keeping dust out of your system.

Other stories you'll find inside this edition:
  • Introducing the GenerLink Transfer Switch
    • Sometimes, weather conditions such as tornadoes, wind, blizzards and high winds can cause power outages which are beyond our control. More>>>
  • EnergyWise Tip: Heat & Cool Your Home Efficiently
    • For some homes, up to 50 percent of the energy used annually is for heating and cooling. Fortunately, you have a option to minimize this expense. More>>>
  • Full Plate of Summer Projects Keep Linemen On the Go
    • Linemen throughout Southern's service area are working on a number of projects that will improve the reliability of our system and meet the need for electricity in the future. More>>>
  • Local Banks Accept SPD Utility Bill Payments
    • Many local banks serve as "drop-off" points for your SPD utility bill payment. More>>>
  • Recipe Box: Easy Crock Pot Roast
    • Big thanks to Anna Dobish for providing this recipe! More>>>