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Stay Cool and Save: How to Keep Your Electricity Bill Low During a Texas Summer
Summer in Texas means long, sunny days—and the kind of heat that makes air conditioning feel more like a necessity than a luxury. But as temperatures rise, so can your electricity bill. The good news? You can stay comfortable and keep your costs down with a few smart strategies.
Whether you’re renting a cozy apartment or managing multiple properties, these energy-saving tips can help you beat the heat without breaking the bank.
1. Use Your Thermostat Wisely
Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and raise it a few degrees when you’re away. Every degree above 72°F can save you up to 3% on cooling costs. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, take full advantage of it. Many Texas utility companies even offer rebates for installing one.
Pro Tip: Ceiling fans help a room feel up to 4°F cooler, so you can raise the thermostat and still feel comfortable.
2. Block the Heat
Texas sunshine is beautiful—but it also brings a lot of radiant heat. Close blinds and curtains during the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Blackout curtains or thermal drapes can make a big difference in keeping your living space cooler.
Bonus: This also protects your furniture and flooring from fading.
3. Seal the Leaks
Drafts around doors and windows can let cold air escape and hot air creep in. Ask your property manager about weather stripping or door sweeps. If you're a renter, simple solutions like removable caulk or draft stoppers are affordable and easy to install—and they can help reduce your bill all year long.
4. Be Smart with Appliances
Appliances like ovens and dryers generate a lot of heat. Try to cook during cooler parts of the day, or use a microwave, slow cooker, or air fryer. Hang-drying clothes instead of using the dryer can also keep your home cooler and reduce energy use.
Did You Know? Running your dishwasher or laundry at night helps lower demand on the grid and may be cheaper if you're on a time-of-use rate plan.
5. Maintain Your A/C
If your unit isn’t cooling efficiently, it could be due to a dirty filter or blocked vents. Replace filters monthly during heavy use, and report any A/C issues to your property manager promptly. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and uses less energy.
6. Take Advantage of Community Amenities
If your property offers a pool, clubhouse, or shaded outdoor areas, make use of them during peak heat hours. Not only does this give your A/C a break, but it's also a great way to enjoy summer without raising your energy bill.
Final Thoughts
Keeping cool in Texas doesn’t have to mean sky-high electricity bills. With a few mindful habits and the right tools, you can stay comfortable while saving money—and energy. If you're a resident with questions about your unit’s efficiency, don’t hesitate to reach out to your property manager. We're here to help you make the most of your space, all year long.
Stay cool, stay smart—and enjoy your summer!
