If you’re feeling shocked by your electric bill this summer, you’re not alone. Your fellow Texans are paying at least 50 to 70% higher than what they were paying for electric bills from the previous summer due to increasing natural gas prices. Another cause for the hike in your electric bill is related to the Texas power grid, which is operated by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). While ERCOT used to prioritize providing cheap power for Texans through the power grid, its main priority now is the Texas power grid’s reliability, which failed in February of 2021, leaving millions of Texans without power for days in subfreezing temperatures. According to the Texas Tribune, Texans will be paying for the fallout from last year’s grid disaster for years. This means a higher price to pay for generators to operate in any future weather event.
In the meantime, until the unforeseeable future when energy costs go down, here are some tips from CPS Energy to help lower your electric bill:
● Set thermostats 2 to 3 degrees higher during the peak energy hours from 2pm to 7pm.
● Use fans in your home to feel 4 to 6 degrees cooler. Set ceiling fans to run counter-clockwise for cooling.
● Keep out the sun and hot air by making sure your windows and doors are tightly closed. Close blinds or drapes on windows that get direct sunlight. Shad your outside AC units.
● Avoid using large appliances such as ovens, washing machines, and clothes dryers during the peak demand hours of 2pm to 7pm.
● Buy a high efficiency washing machine when replacing an old washer.
● Check the setting on your water heater as well as the unit for possible leaks.
● Review energy saving tips for your air conditioning and major appliances.
● Check and replace your air filters as necessary.
● Turn off and unplug lights, appliances and cable boxes when not in use.
● Have your electrical system inspected by a licensed and bonded professional.
For more information on saving energy or electrical services, call Mister Sparky San Antonio at (210) 899-2430 or visit our website at https://www.mistersparky.com/san-antonio/.