Why Is My Houston TX Electric Bill So High In The Summer?

Jun 28

Why Is My Houston TX Electric Bill So High In The Summer?

HOUSTON, TEXAS - June 28, 2022 - Texas Electricity Ratings

Why Is My Houston Electric Bill So High In The Summer?

The most common reasons for the higher electric bills are due to increased air conditioning use, higher temperatures, and more expensive summer electricity rates. In addition, if your home is not properly insulated or if you're using inefficient appliances, this can also contribute to higher bills.

Below, we will look at what you can do to reduce your energy costs and also discuss the importance of proper insulation and having energy efficient appliances. We will also look at several other tips that will help you lower the cost of your electric bill.

Understanding Heat Waves In Houston

Houston heat waves can last for days and cause summer temperatures to skyrocket, making it difficult to stay cool and comfortable. As temperature rises, city-wide demand for electricity rises and air conditioners work harder to keep homes cool, leading to spikes in everyone's electricity bills.

But why does Houston get so hot?

Simply because of its location. Summer heat waves in Houston are common because the city is located in an area of the Gulf Coast that is naturally prone to high temperatures and humidity.

Examining Average Houston Electric Bill Rates

Houston residents typically pay around 12.51 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is slightly higher than the national average of 11.86 cents/kWh. The summer months bring an increase in energy demand.

A few reasons for this increase in demand:

One of the main causes is the increased usage of air conditioners. With the hot and humid temperatures in Houston, many households rely on their AC units to keep cool. Hotter temperatures lead to increased AC usage resulting in higher local demand for electricity that leads to higher cost for electricity.

Second, increased use of appliances and electronics can also contribute to higher electric bills. With people staying indoors to keep coool, there tends to be inctreased use of TVs, computers, and other electricity-using devices.

The increased use of indoor lighting also significantly affects electric bills.

Learn more about how to lower your Houston electricity costs at TexasElectricityRatings.com where you can easily compare and shop the best electricity plans and rates.

Tips to Reduce Energy Consumption

To keep your electric bill low in the summer, focus on ways to reduce your energy consumption. Here are some ways to help you do just that:

• Proper insulation. Make sure your windows and doors are tightly sealed. This will prevent the hot summer air from entering your home and making your air conditioner work harder.

• Make use of energy-efficient Energy Star appliances.

• Unplug any electronics that you don't use. Even when they're not in use, electronics can use electricity in standby mode.

• Install a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to pre-set temperatures for certain times of the day, so you don't waste energy cooling an empty home.

• Turn off the lights when you leave a room. This is an easy way to reduce your energy consumption and save money.

• Use energy-efficient light bulbs. LED bulbs use far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last longer too.

• Wash your clothes in cold water. This will help to reduce the amount of energy your washing machine uses.

• Hang dry your clothes. This is a great way to reduce your electricity consumption, plus it will help your clothes last longer.

By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and help lower your electric bill.

Tips For Keeping Cool In The Heat

1. Install window shades or blinds. Keeping the windows covered can help to keep the hot air outside and the cool air in.

2. Use fans. Ceiling fans, table fans and floor fans can help to circulate the air and keep the room cool.

3. Utilize outside air. Open windows, doors and vents to let the outside air in.

4. Turn off lights. Lights generate heat, so switch them off when they are not in use.

5. Dress appropriately. Wear light and breathable clothing, and use an ice pack to keep your body temperature low.

By following these simple tips, you can keep cool and help keep your energy bills low - even when the summer heat is high.

By taking the time to understand why your electricity bills are so high and adopting some simple energy-saving measures, you can make a real difference in your monthly electricity costs and help keep your home cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.