Your electric bill can fluctuate due to weather changes, increased appliance usage, or inefficiencies in your home. Understanding your energy use can help you take control of your costs.
Check Your Power Usage
The best way to manage your electricity costs is by tracking your usage online.
Click on the three lines at the top right of your screen and select Pay Online.
Click Sign In at the top right of the page.
Click on My Account and then select Usage History.
Ways to Lower Your Bill
Heating & Cooling
Heating and cooling typically account for the largest part of your bill. Small adjustments can lead to big savings:
Set your thermostat to 68°F in winter and 78°F in summer to save 2–3% per degree adjusted.
Use ceiling fans to circulate air and maintain comfort.
Replace dirty air filters and keep vents unblocked for optimal airflow.
Consider a programmable thermostat to adjust temperatures automatically when you're away.
Invest in high-efficiency HVAC systems (SEER 14.5+ or EER 10.8+ for window units) for long-term savings.
Appliances & Cooking
Everyday appliances contribute to your overall usage. You can reduce energy waste with these tips:
Keep refrigerators and freezers full to maintain stable temperatures.
Set refrigerators to 36°–38°F and freezers to 0°–5°F.
Avoid using the oven on hot days—opt for microwaves, slow cookers, or outdoor grilling instead.
Use the air-dry setting on dishwashers instead of heated drying.
Clean refrigerator coils and door seals to prevent energy loss.
Water Heating
Your water heater can be a major energy consumer. Lowering its workload can reduce costs:
Set your water heater thermostat to 120°F to save energy and prevent scalding.
Insulate your water heater with a thermal wrap to retain heat.
Turn off the heater if you'll be away for several days (when freezing isn't a risk).
Fix leaky faucets, especially on the hot water side, to prevent waste.
Install low-flow showerheads to reduce hot water use without sacrificing pressure.
Lighting & Electronics
Minor adjustments in lighting and electronics can add up to significant savings:
Switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 80% less energy and last longer than incandescents.
Turn off lights when not in use—a single 60W bulb left on overnight can add up over time.
Unplug devices or use a power strip to eliminate phantom energy use.
Look for the Energy Star label when purchasing new appliances.
Keep light fixtures clean to maximize brightness and reduce the need for higher wattage bulbs.
Sealing & Insulation
A well-sealed home helps maintain indoor temperatures with less energy:
Seal gaps around doors and windows with caulk or weather stripping.
Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Use thermal curtains to block heat in summer and retain warmth in winter.
Consider double-pane or storm windows for improved insulation.
Insulate your attic and crawl spaces to help regulate indoor temperatures.
Laundry & Water Use
Managing your laundry efficiently can reduce energy consumption:
Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible to save on water heating.
Always run full loads instead of several small loads.
Use the high-speed spin cycle to remove more moisture and shorten drying time.
Clean the lint filter after every load to improve dryer efficiency.
Consider air-drying clothes outside when the weather permits.
Using Nature to Your Advantage
Leverage natural light and strategic landscaping to help control indoor temperatures:
In winter, open blinds on sunny days to let natural heat in.
In summer, close blinds and curtains to block excessive heat.
Plant shade trees on the south side of your home to reduce cooling costs.
Use awnings or reflective window films to reduce heat from direct sunlight.
Maintain a slightly taller lawn to help shade the soil and reduce watering needs.
Stay in Control of Your Bill
By tracking your energy use and making small, consistent changes, you can lower your electric bill without sacrificing comfort. Regularly reviewing your usage history will help you understand your consumption and adjust your habits accordingly.
