Tips to Lower Your Summer Electric Bill
Date: June 29, 2023
As outdoor temperatures increase, so do electric bills. Although cooling a home costs less than heating it, your electric bill may be higher in the summertime because residential cooling systems rely almost exclusively on electricity. Other energy sources, such as natural gas, propane, and firewood, are commonly used for heating.
If you want to lower your electric bill this summer, cultivating a habit of turning off lights and fans in empty rooms and unplugging appliances that draw power when not in use (like TVs) can be helpful. However, taking control of your thermostat is the most impactful action you can take. According to Entergy Arkansas, over 55% of the average customer’s summer electric bill comes from air conditioning.
Although personal preferences and opinions on the hotly debated topic of thermostat settings vary wildly, 72° to 78°F is standard. Setting your thermostat below 78°F can increase your electric bill by 3% per degree. In contrast, adjusting your thermostat by 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its usual setting, like while you’re at work, can reduce your electric bill by up to 10%.
The easiest way to manage altering temperature settings to fit your schedule is with a programmable thermostat. Entergy Arkansas customers can request a FREE programmable thermostat by enrolling in the Smart Direct Load Control Pilot Program. Learn more at: http://bit.ly/entergy-smartload
In addition to running your air conditioner, use fans to keep cool. Fans use substantially less energy than air conditioners. Ceiling fans are the most efficient fan type, moving more air per watt. On average, fans use 0.0393 kWh of electricity per hour. In the US, running a fan costs about $0.0059 per hour.
What about opening windows at night to let in cool air? Keep your windows closed if outdoor humidity is above 65%. Air conditioners remove heat and moisture from the air. A humid home may feel uncomfortable even at cooler temperatures.
Of course, keeping cool air in and hot air out is vital. So seal any cracks around doors, windows, and ductwork, and close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day.