Alabama Power Debunks Energy-Saving Myths for Halloween and Beyond

As autumn settles in, Alabama residents are exploring ways to keep their homes warm while managing energy costs. However, various misconceptions about energy efficiency often cloud judgment. Alabama Power is stepping in to clarify these myths and offer practical advice for energy savings during the colder months.

Debunking Energy-Saving Myths for Halloween and Beyond

Myth 1: Turning Off Heating Units Saves Energy

One common belief is that switching off heating systems when away from home reduces energy consumption. In reality, this can lead to higher costs. When the heating unit is turned off, it must work harder to reheat the home when turned back on. This effort can drive up energy use and, consequently, bills.

Myth 2: Closing Vents Improves Heating Efficiency

Many homeowners think closing vents in unused rooms will help redirect heat to other areas. Contrary to this belief, closing vents disrupts airflow and can diminish system efficiency. Therefore, all vents should remain open to ensure an effective heating balance throughout the home.

Myth 3: Unused Electronics Don’t Consume Power

Another prevalent myth is that electronics left plugged in but switched off do not affect energy bills. This isn’t true. Devices like televisions and chargers can drain power even when not in use, known as “phantom energy.” Unplugging these devices or using a power strip can help mitigate these costs.

Myth 4: Cooking Inefficiently Wastes Energy

Some believe that cooking always leads to higher energy consumption. However, there are efficient ways to prepare meals. Outdoor grilling is one option that reduces indoor cooling needs. Smaller appliances, such as slow cookers and toaster ovens, also consume less energy compared to larger ovens.

Tools and Resources for Energy Savings

Alabama Power offers several resources to assist customers in managing their energy consumption:

• Alabama Power Mobile App: Access and manage accounts conveniently.
• My Power Usage Tool: Monitor daily energy usage and set personalized alerts.

Additionally, customers can:

• Report outages and view outage maps online.
• Pay bills securely via AlabamaPower.com or through digital wallet options like Venmo and Google Pay.
• Utilize online tools such as the Bill Explainer and Rate Advisor for further insights into their energy usage.

For more information on energy savings during the Halloween season and throughout the year, visit El-Balad for valuable tips and resources that can help reduce electricity costs.