Smart Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill This Summer
Summer in Florida brings long days, hot temperatures, and higher electric bills for most homeowners. As your air conditioner works overtime and your family spends more time indoors, it’s no surprise that your utility costs can skyrocket. However, there are smart and simple ways to reduce your electricity usage without sacrificing comfort.
At Taddeo Electrical Contractors, we help homeowners make energy-efficient upgrades that lead to real savings. Whether you’re looking to lower your air conditioning costs, improve your home’s efficiency, or just make smarter energy choices, here are some proven strategies to cut your electric bill this summer.
Adjust Your Thermostat Settings
One of the easiest ways to save money is to optimize your thermostat settings. Many people ask, “What’s the best temperature to set my thermostat in summer?” The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting it to 78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away.
If you haven’t already, consider installing a smart thermostat. These devices learn your schedule, adjust automatically, and can save you up to 10 percent a year on heating and cooling costs. They also allow you to control your system remotely, which comes in handy if you forget to adjust the temperature before leaving the house.
Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way
Ceiling fans don’t actually cool the air, they circulate it to help you feel cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without discomfort. Just make sure your fan is spinning counterclockwise in the summer, which pushes cool air down.
Also, turn fans off when you leave the room. They only help people feel cooler, not the room itself, so leaving them on wastes electricity.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting
If you’re still using incandescent bulbs, you’re spending more than you need to on lighting. Switching to LED light bulbs can significantly lower your electricity bill. LEDs use up to 80 percent less energy and last much longer than traditional bulbs.
During the summer, every little bit counts. Less heat from lighting means less work for your AC, so this simple switch can help in more ways than one.
Seal and Insulate Your Home
A poorly sealed home allows cool air to escape, forcing your AC to run more often. Small leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork can add up fast. Sealing gaps and improving your insulation helps keep cool air inside where it belongs.
If you feel drafts or notice uneven cooling, it may be time to schedule an electrical and energy efficiency inspection. At Taddeo Electrical Contractors, we often identify areas where insulation upgrades and improved ventilation can make a major difference.
Unplug Unused Devices
Even when electronics are turned off, they can still use power if they’re plugged in. This “phantom energy” can account for up to 10 percent of your monthly electricity usage.
Try using a smart power strip or unplugging items like phone chargers, coffee makers, and game consoles when not in use. It’s a small habit that adds up over time.
Schedule a Professional Energy Audit
Wondering why your electric bill is so high despite your efforts? A home energy audit can provide a clear picture. During an audit, a professional checks your entire electrical system, insulation, appliances, and usage patterns to pinpoint areas where you’re losing energy and money.
Our team at Taddeo Electrical Contractors offers comprehensive home energy assessments. We help homeowners across Central and Northern Florida understand their current energy use and recommend upgrades that deliver real savings.
Upgrade Older Appliances
Appliances that are more than 10 years old can be incredibly inefficient. If your refrigerator, HVAC system, or water heater is outdated, you may be spending hundreds more per year on your electric bill.
When it’s time to replace, look for the ENERGY STAR® label, which indicates the appliance meets strict energy efficiency guidelines. Not sure what to upgrade first? We can help you prioritize improvements that offer the biggest return on investment.
Keep Your AC Running Efficiently
Regular HVAC maintenance is critical during the summer months. Change your air filters every 1 to 2 months, keep vents clear, and schedule professional tune-ups as needed. A dirty or poorly maintained system can’t cool effectively, which means higher energy use and less comfort.
You can also explore zoned cooling systems or ductless mini-split units if you’re only using part of your home during the day. These systems allow for more targeted cooling and better control over your energy usage.
Ready to Lower Your Summer Electric Bill?
At Taddeo Electrical Contractors, we believe energy efficiency should be practical and affordable. From smart thermostat installation to whole-home electrical upgrades, we help Florida homeowners stay comfortable while keeping energy costs in check.
Want to see real savings on your next electric bill? Contact Taddeo Electrical Contractors today to schedule a home energy audit or learn more about energy-efficient upgrades tailored to your needs.