In Arizona, summer electricity bills can feel like a second mortgage. With triple-digit heat stretching for months, your air conditioner runs almost nonstop, making it the biggest energy consumer in your home. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to save money, a few smart changes can keep your home cool and your bill in check.
1. Upgrade Your Lighting to LED
LED bulbs use up to 80% less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs and produce far less heat, a bonus when you’re trying to keep rooms cool. Swapping out every bulb in your home can noticeably reduce both lighting and cooling costs.
2. Install Ceiling Fans in Key Rooms
A properly installed ceiling fan can make a room feel 4–6 degrees cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat without losing comfort. For best results in Arizona homes:
- Choose Energy Star® rated ceiling fans.
- Have them professionally installed by a licensed Phoenix electrician to ensure they’re mounted securely and wired correctly.
3. Program Your Thermostat (or Go Smart)
Setting your thermostat to cool only when you’re home can shave hundreds off your summer bill. Smart thermostats, like the Nest or Ecobee, learn your habits and make automatic adjustments for maximum efficiency.
4. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation
If cool air is escaping through gaps around doors, windows, or ductwork, your A/C will run longer than necessary. While sealing leaks is often a DIY job, a professional energy audit can identify hidden problem spots.
5. Maintain Your A/C Unit
Dirty coils, clogged filters, and low refrigerant all force your A/C to work harder, using more electricity. Schedule annual maintenance before the summer rush to keep it running efficiently.
6. Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade
If your home’s electrical panel is outdated, it may be distributing power inefficiently, especially with modern high-demand appliances. A panel upgrade from a licensed Arizona electrician can improve efficiency and handle your household’s needs without overloading circuits.
Bonus Tip: Shift High-Energy Tasks to Off-Peak Hours
APS and SRP offer lower rates during off-peak times (usually evenings and early mornings). Running dishwashers, laundry machines, or pool pumps during these hours can lower your bill without changing your daily comfort.
Final Thought:
Lowering your summer energy bill in Arizona isn’t just about one big change, it’s about combining small, smart habits with efficient home upgrades. If you want a personalized plan for your home, schedule an energy efficiency inspection with a licensed Phoenix electrician before the heat hits. Give us a call at 623-487-0687 or reach out here.
