Current Light Flashes

WFEC answers your frequently-asked questions

From bewildering billing to matters of meters During a typical business day, West Florida Electric Cooperative’s consumers ask the Co-op’s customer service representatives for all sorts of information, and often, several customers will ask the same question in the same day. The following are some of your most frequently-asked questions answered:

I’m having technical problems with my Internet service provided by West Florida Electric. What should I do?
If you are having problems with your WFEC Internet service, including any problem with your e-mail or Web browser, call 1-866-543-3405, WFEC’s toll-free, 24-hour technical support number.

The due date for my bill is during the weekend or on a holiday, and WFEC is closed then. When do I need to pay my bill so I will not accrue a late fee?
If your bill is due during the weekend, then you have until Monday to pay it. If the due date lands on a holiday, then you have until the next business day to have it paid.

What steps should I take to apply for electric service from WFEC?
Applying for electric service from WFEC is an easy five-step process. First, provide WFEC with your driver’s license and Social Security card so the customer service representative can make a copy of them. Next, fill out an application, then pay a $125 connection fee, which includes a $5 membership fee, a $20 service charge and a $100 deposit. Finally, provide the name of the nearest neighbor or the name of the person who lived at this location before you. Upon completion of this simple process, you can begin receiving electric service from WFEC.

How much is WFEC’s Internet service, and how can I sign up for it?
WFEC offers local, unlimited dial-up Internet access for $19.95 a month. You can obtain an enrollment form by visiting any WFEC district office, calling WFEC to request a form be mailed or faxed to you, or logging on to www.wfeca.net if you already have access to the Internet. The connection fee is $10.

If you are a WFEC member, or electric consumer, the monthly charge can be included on your electric bill. If you do not have a WFEC electric account with WFEC, the Co-op will bill you for your Internet service on the 10th of each month, and your payment will be due by the 25th of the same month.

Does WFEC actually read my meter, or do you just estimate the usage?
WFEC employs contractors who do record meter readings. Out of more than 25,000 meters, over 8,000 are radio-read, which means that the reader uses a hand-held device to automatically record the meters’ readings. With these meters, the readers do not even have to get out of their vehicles to obtain the correct reading.

A meter reader keys the readings of the remaining meters into a hand-held device immediately after reading the meter to ensure accuracy. However, certain obstacles can hinder the reader’s ability to obtain your meter’s reading. For instance, weather can play a role in the process. Locked gates or aggressive dogs can interfere, as well, so please be courteous and provide the necessary access to your meters.

Article contributed by WFEC Communication Intern Millie Kindig

Back to Current Light Flashes



Page created and maintained by West Florida Electric Cooperative, Inc. © 2001.
designed by embryo design