Why has my power bill gone up this summer?

Summer months often bring some of the highest energy bills of the year. Why? Cooling your home accounts for a large portion of your monthly energy use. The hotter it gets, the harder (and longer) your air conditioner works to keep you cool.

Typically, our highest energy use periods occur from June through September and again in January and February. The greater the difference between the outdoor temperature and your indoor thermostat setting, the more energy your system uses to maintain comfort. In addition to using the tools available in your online portal, there are other small changes you can make to save. 

So what can you do to help save energy?

Install a programmable thermostat. You can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs by automatically adjusting your thermostat for at least 8 hours a day while you’re asleep or away.

Raise your thermostat. Set it to 78°F in summer and when you’re away, adjust it by 7–10 degrees to reduce energy use even more.

Keep drapes and curtains closed. Blocking sunlight during the hottest parts of the day helps prevent indoor temperatures from rising, reducing the load on your air conditioner.

Lower your water heater temperature. While 120°F is the standard recommendation, lowering it to 115°F—if comfortable—can help trim your energy use.

Switch to LED bulbs. LEDs use 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them a smart upgrade for any room.

Small changes can lead to big savings. Try these tips to stay cool and keep your bills in check.