What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Bolingbrook
As the heat rises in Bolingbrook, so do electric bills. Residents can expect their summer energy bills to be significantly higher than the rest of the year. The average monthly electric bill for June through August in Bolingbrook is around $180, compared to just $110 in the spring months. The average July electric bill in Bolingbrook peaks at about $210.
These high summer costs are driven by the need for air conditioning to keep homes comfortable in the hot, humid Illinois weather. Cooling expenses make up the majority of electricity use during these months. Longer daylight hours also contribute to higher energy consumption for lighting and electronics.
While exact costs will vary based on home size, thermostat settings, and A/C efficiency, most Bolingbrook households should plan for electric bills to nearly double in the summer. Budgeting ahead for these seasonal spikes can help avoid surprises.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Bolingbrook During the Summer?
Several factors converge to drive up electric bills in Bolingbrook in the summer months. The biggest contributor is the high demand for air conditioning. As temperatures regularly climb into the 80s and 90s, A/C units have to work overtime to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Older, less efficient cooling systems use even more energy to keep up.
The age and quality of home insulation also plays a role. Houses with poor insulation or lots of air leaks force A/C to run longer. Many homes in Bolingbrook were built before modern efficiency standards. Upgrading insulation can help, but it’s a substantial investment.
Secondary summer expenses like pool pumps, extra refrigeration, fans, and watering systems add to the electric load as well. In Bolingbrook, these extras can tack on $20-50 per month. Families charging electric vehicles at home will see an additional bump in power costs.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
Here’s how the typical summer electric bill breaks down for an 1,800 square foot home in Bolingbrook with average A/C use:
| Component | Cost | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | $115 | 55% |
| Appliances | $40 | 19% |
| Water Heating | $25 | 12% |
| Lighting | $20 | 10% |
| Other | $10 | 5% |
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Bolingbrook. Air conditioning is by far the biggest piece of the summer electric cost puzzle. Finding ways to reduce A/C runtime is key to reining in expenses.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While some summer bill inflation is inevitable, Bolingbrook residents have options to reduce the financial sting:
- Sign up for off-peak billing to access lower rates on nights and weekends
- Install a smart thermostat to automate A/C for savings
- Have ductwork inspected and sealed to prevent air leaks
- Plant shade trees or add awnings to block sun
- Use ceiling fans to feel cooler with A/C set 3-4°F higher
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to stay comfortable. Every degree above 75°F saves 3-5% on cooling costs.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Bolingbrook
Some utility providers offer time-based discounts to encourage electric use in off-peak hours. These “time-of-use” plans charge lower rates late at night, early in the morning, and on weekends. In the Bolingbrook area, ComEd provides a few time-of-use options that may help heavy A/C users save.
On a typical time-of-use plan, expect to pay about 30% less for off-peak electricity compared to normal rates. The trade-off is paying a surcharge of around 25% for on-peak use (usually weekday afternoons and evenings). Shifting chores like laundry, dishwashing, and EV charging to off-peak times maximizes savings.
These plans work best for households that can be flexible with their energy-intensive activities. Those with non-traditional schedules or the ability to automate usage may benefit most. Compare total costs carefully before switching.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring in Bolingbrook?
A: Summer bills are usually 50-70% higher than in the mild spring months. The average August bill of $190 is about 65% more than April’s $115.
Q: Does solar power substantially reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, a solar panel system can offset a large portion of summer electric bills. However, savings depend on system size, efficiency, and net metering policies.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house at in the summer to save energy?
A: The US Dept. of Energy recommends setting thermostats to 78°F when you’re home and a few degrees higher when away. Use fans to feel cooler at higher temps.
Smart Cooling Prep for Bolingbrook Summers
With some planning, Bolingbrook residents can take the heat off their wallets in the peak of summer. Expect cooling costs to drive electric bills up to the $180 to $250 range in July and August, depending on your home size and A/C use. That’s about 60% higher than off-season averages.
Making small changes like bumping the thermostat up a couple degrees, sealing leaky ducts, and optimizing with off-peak rates can add up to substantial savings. Energy Star appliances and regular HVAC maintenance pay off in the long run too.
By understanding what drives summer bills and having a savings strategy, you can keep your budget cool even as the Bolingbrook weather sizzles. Stay comfortable, stay in control.