DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — As temperatures continue to climb across Alabama and heat index values are expected to reach the triple digits this weekend, Alabama Power is encouraging customers to take steps to stay cool while managing their energy bills.
According to Alabama Power, Alabama households use about 30% more electricity than the U.S. average because of the state’s hot, humid climate and heavy reliance on electric heating and cooling. While the company’s electric rates remain frozen, increased air conditioning use during periods of extreme heat can still result in higher monthly bills.
To help customers better understand their energy use, Alabama Power offers several online tools, including My Power Usage to track daily energy consumption, Rate Advisor to compare rate plans, Budget Billing to help level out seasonal costs, and TempCheck, which shows how outdoor temperatures and thermostat settings affect energy use. Customers can also access Bill Explainer, Home Energy Reports and Energy Assistant, along with payment options such as AutoPay, billing alerts and digital payment methods.
The company also recommends several simple ways to improve energy efficiency during the summer months. Keeping the thermostat as close to the outdoor temperature as comfort and health allow can reduce energy use, while installing a smart thermostat can help better manage indoor temperatures and humidity.
Other recommendations include sealing gaps around doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping, changing HVAC air filters monthly to help systems run more efficiently, closing blinds and shades during the hottest parts of the day to block sunlight, and using ceiling or portable fans to circulate cool air. Alabama Power reminds customers to turn fans off when leaving a room because they cool people, not empty spaces.
Alabama Power encourages customers to use its online tools and energy-saving resources to better understand their electricity usage and help reduce costs throughout the summer.