What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Lexington
As the heat rises in Lexington, so do electric bills. Summer energy bills in Lexington typically peak in July and August, when air conditioning use is highest. Expect to see your monthly power costs increase by 30-50% compared to spring months.
According to local utility data, the average July electric bill in Lexington is about $180 for a 1,500 square foot home. This assumes typical A/C use and average appliance efficiency. Your exact costs will vary based on your home’s size, insulation, cooling habits, and electricity plan.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Lexington During the Summer?
Several factors drive up summer power bills in Lexington. The biggest is air conditioning demand. When outdoor temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, heat pumps and central A/C units have to work overtime to keep homes comfortable. Older, less efficient cooling systems use even more energy.
Lexington’s long summer daylight hours also contribute to higher energy use. More time spent at home means more demand for cooling, appliances, electronics, and lighting. In some homes, pool pumps, irrigation systems, and EV charging can further increase summer electric bills.
The age and quality of your home’s insulation and windows also impact cooling costs. Homes with poor insulation or single-pane windows are harder to cool efficiently, leading to higher bills regardless of thermostat settings.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
Here’s how a typical summer electric bill breaks down for a 1,800 square foot Lexington home with average A/C use:
| Component | Cost | % of Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | $108 | 54% |
| Appliances | $40 | 20% |
| Water Heating | $24 | 12% |
| Lighting | $16 | 8% |
| Other | $12 | 6% |
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Lexington. Refrigerators, dishwashers, laundry, and electronics make up most of the remaining balance. Actual percentages will vary based on your home and habits.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While some summer bill increase is inevitable, there are ways Lexington residents can reduce cooling costs:
- Sign up for off-peak or time-of-use billing to get lower rates on nights and weekends
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your cooling schedule
- Use ceiling fans to feel cooler with a higher A/C set point
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors to improve efficiency
- Plant shade trees or add window awnings to block solar heat
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day when you’re home and a few degrees higher at night or when away. Every degree above 72°F saves 3-5% on cooling costs.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Lexington
Some Lexington utility providers like Kentucky Utilities offer optional Time-of-Day rate plans. Under these programs, you pay different prices for electricity based on the time of use. Rates are typically highest on summer weekday afternoons and lowest overnight or on weekends.
If your home uses most of its power during off-peak hours, a time-based rate plan could help lower your bills. Always compare the pricing and your usage before switching plans.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
A: Summer cooling costs are often 30-50% higher than in the mild spring months. The exact increase depends on your A/C use and home’s efficiency.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, a appropriately sized solar PV system can offset a significant portion of your summer cooling costs. The savings are highest if your panels are unshaded and face south or west.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house to save energy?
A: The US Dept. of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and awake, and a few degrees higher when away or asleep. Use fans, shades, and light clothing to stay comfortable at warmer indoor temps.
Smart Cooling Prep for Lexington Summers
With average July electric bills around $180, Lexington residents can expect a noticeable seasonal increase in cooling costs. To prepare, consider investing in efficiency upgrades like a smart thermostat, insulation, or strategic landscaping. Opting for an off-peak rate plan can also help if your home has the flexibility.
For a full breakdown of utility costs in Lexington, see our guide on Lexington Utility Costs Explained. With a little planning and savvy usage, you can stay cool and keep bills under control all summer.