10 Common Energy and Electricity Myths Debunked

10 Common Energy and Electricity Myths Debunked

Misconceptions about energy and electricity abound, and in Texas—with its unique power grid—some of these myths can feel even more convincing. Below, we’ll outline each myth, briefly explain where it comes from, and then share the truth with a clear, concise explanation.

1. Leaving Lights On Uses Less Energy Than Turning Them Off

• Origin: People believe turning lights on uses a sudden surge of power that outweighs any savings you’d get from switching them off.
• Truth: It’s more efficient to turn lights off. Modern LED and CFL bulbs draw only a tiny surge of power at startup, so any energy spike is negligible compared to the cost of leaving them on. In fact, the best practice is to switch off lights whenever you leave a room. If you’re worried about forgetting, consider installing motion-sensor or timed switches. For further details on energy-efficient lighting, you can visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s guide.

2. Ceiling Fans Cool Rooms

• Origin: Because a fan’s airflow feels refreshing, many assume it actually lowers the temperature of the entire space.
• Truth: Fans cool people, not empty rooms. The circulating air helps sweat evaporate off your skin, making you feel cooler even though the ambient temperature remains the same. If no one’s around to enjoy the breeze, running a fan just adds to your electricity bill. Combine a good fan strategy with an efficient thermostat setting to balance comfort and costs.

3. Deregulated Electricity Markets Are Always More Expensive

• Origin: Horror stories of sky-high bills from poorly chosen contracts lead people to assume deregulation spells higher costs.
• Truth: Competition can actually drive better deals. In deregulated markets like Texas, you have the power to choose from multiple electricity providers. This competitive environment often results in more affordable rates and specialized plans. By comparing offers on Ladybug Energy, you can find rates that fit your usage patterns and budget, whether you prefer fixed, variable, or renewable energy plans.

4. Texas’ Power Grid Is Completely Isolated

• Origin: The 2021 winter storm made people think Texas runs its grid without any outside connection.
• Truth: ERCOT has limited ties to neighboring states. While Texas does maintain a largely autonomous grid to avoid certain federal regulations, it’s not totally cut off. There are a few interconnections that can be used in emergency situations. For a closer look at how Texas balances independence with occasional outside support, see this post.

5. Higher Thermostat Settings Heat Your Home Faster

• Origin: The assumption is that turning the thermostat way up will make the heating system work more vigorously and warm the house quicker.
• Truth: A thermostat only regulates the final temperature. It doesn’t control how quickly your system warms the space—it just runs until it reaches the set point. Turning it up much higher than needed wastes energy because the system will keep running well after reaching a comfortable temperature. Instead, use a programmed or smart thermostat to maintain efficient, even heating.

6. Appliances Don’t Use Power When Turned Off

• Origin: Many believe that switching off a device cuts power entirely.
• Truth: Standby power is still a thing. Even when appliances and electronics like TVs, chargers, and gaming consoles are turned off, they often draw a small amount of electricity called “phantom load.” Using smart power strips or unplugging devices you rarely use is an easy way to avoid this unnecessary energy consumption.

7. Renewable Energy Is Unreliable

• Origin: The variability of solar and wind resources creates doubt about their stability in meeting electricity demands.
• Truth: Technological advances have made renewables far more dependable. Improved battery storage, smarter grid management, and better weather forecasting significantly enhance renewable energy’s reliability. Texas is a leader in wind energy and is expanding its solar capacity. If you’re curious about transitioning to a green energy plan, check out providers like Green Mountain Energy on Ladybug Energy.

8. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

• Origin: The logic goes that closing vents reduces the heating or cooling needed, thus saving money.
• Truth: Your HVAC system is designed for the entire house. Blocking vents creates pressure imbalances that can strain the system, leading to more energy usage and even potential duct leaks. If you need more localized control, zoned HVAC systems or smart vents are better long-term solutions.

9. Electric Vehicles Will Overload the Grid

• Origin: Growing EV adoption raises concerns that massive charging demands could crash local power systems.
• Truth: Utility upgrades and off-peak charging manage demand. Electric utilities encourage nighttime charging and are already improving infrastructure to handle increased EV usage. Smart charging systems balance the load, and future grid technologies will make EV integration even smoother.

10. All Electricity Plans Are Essentially the Same

• Origin: Facing a large number of plan options can lead consumers to assume they’re identical, apart from pricing.
• Truth: Plans differ significantly in rates, billing structures, and renewables. Some deals feature fixed or variable pricing, others offer free nights or weekends, and a few focus on green energy. You can quickly compare plans, features, and contract terms on Ladybug Energy. Don’t forget to check each plan’s Electricity Facts Label (EFL) before you sign up.

Practical Ways to Reduce Your Electricity Bill

• Seal Leaks and Drafts: Proper insulation, caulking, and weatherstripping can prevent outdoor air from sneaking in and driving up heating/cooling costs.
  
• Upgrade Appliances: ENERGY STAR®-rated devices may have a higher upfront cost, but they usually pay for themselves in energy savings over time.
  
• Use a Smart Thermostat: Automated schedules or remote control of heating and cooling can help you cut costs without compromising comfort.

Understanding Your Home’s Energy Usage

• Home Energy Audits: Some utilities offer free or discounted energy audits to pinpoint areas where your home is losing efficiency.
  
• Smart Meters: Many Texas households have access to meters that provide real-time consumption data, making it easier to track and optimize your usage habits.
  
• Rebates and Incentives: Look into local, state, or federal programs offering rebates on solar panels, HVAC systems, or efficient appliances.

Explore Electricity Rates and Providers in Texas

• Compare Options: Ladybug Energy’s Provider Page helps you review plans from various REPs (Retail Electric Providers).
  
• Customize Your Plan: Consider fixed-rate, variable-rate, or renewable plans. Some providers even offer perks like free weekend electricity or special sign-up incentives.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the truth behind these myths is a great step toward better energy decisions. By choosing carefully in a deregulated market, sealing leaks, and staying aware of how your appliances work, you’ll not only save money but also contribute to a more efficient energy future for Texas. Take control of your usage, explore different providers, and embrace smart solutions—starting with a simple visit to Ladybug Energy.