(WDNews) — With the coldest stretch of the season expected to arrive this weekend, Alabama Power is offering energy-saving tips to help customers stay warm while managing heating costs.
The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures across much of Alabama to drop into the teens and low 20s, with daytime highs remaining in the 40s through early next week.
As colder weather increases demand on heating systems, Alabama Power officials encouraged residents to take simple steps to reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort. The utility recommends setting thermostats as low as comfortably possible and lowering them further when residents are away from home or asleep.
Heating systems must work harder during cold weather due to the larger difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the company noted. For example, warming a home from 40 degrees to 70 degrees requires significantly more energy than cooling it during the summer months.
Customers are also advised to use natural sunlight to help warm their homes by opening blinds during the day and closing curtains at night to retain heat. Keeping garage doors closed can further prevent warm air from escaping.
Low-cost improvements such as sealing gaps with caulk or weatherstripping, using door draft stoppers and placing rugs on cold floors can also help reduce heat loss.
Alabama Power encouraged customers to use its mobile app to monitor energy consumption through the My Power Usage tool, which allows users to track daily usage, compare monthly trends and set alerts.
For customers needing financial assistance, the company offers several support programs, including Energy Assistant, Rate Advisor and a Bill Explainer tool designed to help customers better understand their monthly statements. Payment arrangements may also be available for those experiencing financial hardship.
More information and additional winter energy-saving tips are available on Alabama Power’s website.
