Watch Out for these Four Scams

Saving money on your electric bill never sounded so good, but if it sounds too good to be true, it just may be. Check out this page for the top scams to avoid.

1. "Free" Energy

No device can generate energy without input from another source. Outrageous claims of savings sounds great, but often break the laws of physics. So chances are, this one is scam.

One of the products is a no-cost, non-patented generator, which claims to give consumers “Free Electricity." The energy source that powers this type of generator is a set of strong permanent magnets that supposedly act as a generator. Since the generator is powered from a “constant energy source in the form of gravity and permanent magnets” it should run nonstop, according to the claims. But does it work?

According to the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), these inventions violate the basic laws of physics and cannot work. No device can generate energy without an equivalent input from some source such as burning fuel.

If you are approached to attend a seminar or give money for free energy, we advise you to rethink your decision.

2. Fraudulent Calls

Pennsylvania Governor and former Attorney General Tom Corbett advises state residents to be aware of callers asking members to provide credit card or other financial account information and personally identifiable information.

"The sole purpose of these calls and messages is to convince unwary victims to reveal their account numbers and passwords so that thieves can steal money from their bank accounts or make large purchases with their credit cards," Corbett said.

Please exercise caution when someone calls asking for personal information. If you receive a call from Adams Electric, or someone saying they are with Adams Electric, call 888/232-6732 to verify the call.

And remember, it is the co-op's policy to never contact its members to solicit personal information. When account payment, collections or disconnect services do become necessary, the co-op will only ask to verify the last four digits of the social security number of an established member.

Help protect yourself from this scam but increasing your awareness with this article.

3. False Employees

You can never be too careful about who you let inside your home or business. Adams Electric is helping you take extra precautions so you have no doubts about who is on your property.

To confirm an individual is with Adams Electric, look for these signs:

• Adams Electric logo on clothing, hats, etc.
• Adams Electric logo on vehicles
• Photo ID

If after seeing the ID you are still unsure about the employee, you may contact Adams Electric at any time toll-free 1-888-232-6732.

For more information about keeping your property safe and secure, check out this article.

4. Power Factor Scams

These scams market a electricity saving device that you attach to your electrical system. The device claims to lower your electricity bill by up to 30%, by altering the power factor of the electricity being used in your home. The devices—sometimes referred to as Amp Reduction Units or KVARs—are solicited as good investments because they reduce the amount of current drawn from power lines while providing the necessary amount of current to appliances inside the house. The National Institute of Standards and Technology warn customers that these "savers" do not actually provide any saving benefits.

According to customer reviews, the devices does little to lower your electricity bill and more to take money out of your pocket for start up costs. Not only will the device cost you money, but attaching any outside object to your electrical system could prove dangerous. Please take caution and safety considerations when considering these products.

Trying to spot a scam? Check out these tips to help you avoid one.

Want to lower your electric bill, but stay away from scams? Adams Electric offers helpful online tools, valuable tips and resources to help you reduce your overall energy consumption.

Find out what Adams Electric is doing to protect its members from scams.