What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Riverside
As the mercury rises in Riverside, so do summer energy bills. Keeping your home cool and comfortable during the hot months of June through August can lead to sticker shock when the electric bill arrives. The average July electric bill in Riverside is about $225, nearly double the cost during milder spring months.
Riverside residents can expect their summer energy bills to be significantly higher than the rest of the year. Air conditioning accounts for the biggest portion of increased usage and costs. Longer daylight hours and kids home from school also contribute to higher household energy consumption during the summer months in Riverside.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Riverside During the Summer?
Several factors drive up summer electric bills in Riverside. The biggest culprit is the increased demand for air conditioning to combat triple-digit temperatures. Older homes with poor insulation and aging HVAC systems have to work harder and longer to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, leading to higher cooling costs.
In addition to A/C usage, other summer activities can increase energy consumption. Pool pumps, landscape irrigation systems, and electric vehicle charging add to the electric bill. Kids home from school use more electronics and appliances throughout the day. All of these factors combine to make summer the most expensive season for energy costs in Riverside.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To illustrate where your summer energy dollars go, here’s a sample breakdown for an 1,800 square foot home in Riverside with average air conditioning use:
| Component | Percent of Bill | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | 55% | $123.75 |
| Appliances | 15% | $33.75 |
| Water Heating | 12% | $27.00 |
| Lighting | 10% | $22.50 |
| Other | 8% | $18.00 |
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Riverside. Appliances, water heating, lighting and other miscellaneous uses make up the remainder. Your actual breakdown will vary based on home size, A/C usage, and other household-specific factors.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While summer electric bills are unavoidably higher, Riverside residents can take steps to control costs:
- Sign up for off-peak or time-of-use billing to get lower rates during certain hours
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your A/C usage
- Have your ducts professionally sealed to improve A/C efficiency
- Plant shade trees or install awnings to block direct sun
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to feel cooler while using less A/C.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Riverside
Some utility providers like Riverside Public Utilities offer optional Time-of-Use (TOU) rate plans. Under TOU pricing, you pay different rates for electricity based on the time of day and day of the week that you use it.
Peak hours, usually weekday afternoons and evenings, have the highest per-kWh rates. Off-peak hours, typically nights and weekends, offer a discounted rate. By shifting flexible usage like laundry and dishwashing to off-peak times, you can reduce your overall energy costs without sacrificing comfort.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring in Riverside?
A: Summer bills in July and August are often 50-100% higher than April and May as cooling costs soar with rising temperatures.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, a appropriately sized solar panel system can significantly offset the increased summer cost of air conditioning. Excess production can also be sold back to the grid.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house at in the summer to save energy?
A: The US Dept. of Energy recommends setting your central A/C to 78°F when you’re home. Raise the temperature when away to avoid wasting energy on an empty house.
Smart Cooling Prep for Riverside Summers
With average summer electric bills ranging from $175 to over $300 per month in Riverside, it pays to be proactive. Have your A/C serviced, seal air leaks, use fans strategically, and take advantage of off-peak rates if available. Small changes can add up to real savings.
For a full breakdown of all utility costs in Riverside, check out our Riverside Utility Costs Explained report. You’ll find more tips and insights on budgeting for essential services in Riverside.