How to Lower Your Power Bill as the Texas Temperatures Rise

Spring in Texas brings a welcome break from the cold, but as temperatures start creeping up, so do people’s energy bills. Before the summer heat sets in, now is the perfect time to start making a few changes to your home and your habits to help keep your home cool. Here are a few tips to help you stay comfortable in the Texas heat without driving up your electricity bill:

Be Mindful of Your Thermostat

As you probably know, your thermostat is a key contributor to your home’s energy consumption. It’s tempting when the heat starts to rise to crank the thermostat down, but this is one of the quickest ways to hike up your power bill. As a rule of thumb, set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and raise it a few degrees when you leave the house. This will help you reduce your energy consumption and your electricity costs.

Put Ceiling Fans to Work

Ceiling fans are an energy-efficient way to make your home feel cooler without overworking your AC. Remember to set your fan blades to rotate counterclockwise in the hotter months to push air downward and create a cool breeze. Turn fans off in rooms no one is using to further conserve energy. Making mindful use of your ceiling fans allows you to give your HVAC unit a much-needed break!

Close the Blinds and Curtains

Although natural light is nice, sunlight beaming into your windows causes your home to warm up and makes your AC work harder to keep it cool. Close the blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south and west-facing windows, to prevent the heat from coming in. Consider using blackout curtains or reflective shades to block out even more heat.

Keep Up With Your Air Filter

Many factors cause your HVAC system to have to work overtime, including a dirty or clogged air filter. Checking and replacing your air filter regularly can help you keep your cooling system running efficiently. The general recommendation for an air filter replacement is every 1-3 months. However, you should check with your HVAC unit’s manufacturer for guidelines on how often to replace the air filter for your specific unit. 

Ensure Your Insulation is in Good Shape

Insulation keeps cool air in and hot air out. Be sure to check your attic insulation and seal any gaps around windows and doors to prevent air leaks. Even the tiniest of gaps can allow heat to come in, driving up your energy costs as your AC works to cool your home. For an easy and affordable fix, try using caulk, weather stripping or door sweeps. 

Take Advantage of Off-Peak Hours

Many electricity providers offer lower energy rates during off-peak hours. These hours are usually in the late evening or early morning, making these perfect times to do household chores. Run large appliances like dishwashers, washing machines and dryers at night to help reduce your energy costs. Cooking in the early morning or later in the day, instead of using the oven during midday peak hours, can also help you keep your power bill in check.

There are many ways to cut your energy consumption and save money on the power bill as we move into the hotter months. The key is being mindful of your habits and making simple changes around the home. Visit our website to learn more about how Pronto Power’s prepaid electricity service can help you invite even more savings on your energy bills!