What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Cary
As temperatures climb into the 90s, summer energy bills in Cary tend to soar as well. According to IndexYard data, the average monthly electric bill for a Cary household from June through August is $168. The average July electric bill in Cary is about $185, representing the peak of cooling season.
These figures are based on typical energy usage for a 1,800 square foot home in Cary. Your actual summer power costs will depend on factors like your home’s size, age, insulation levels, and thermostat settings. Homes with pools, irrigation systems, or multiple air conditioning units may see even higher bills.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Cary During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to high summer energy bills in Cary. Air conditioning is the biggest driver, accounting for 50-60% of the typical household’s power use in July. Cary’s humid subtropical climate means A/C units and heat pumps have to work overtime to keep homes cool and dry.
Older homes with inadequate insulation or air sealing lose cool air more quickly, forcing cooling systems to run longer. Cary’s abundant sunshine and long summer days also heat up homes more than in milder climates. Other seasonal costs like pool pumps and landscape watering can further increase summer electric bills.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
Here’s how the average $185 July electric bill in Cary breaks down by usage category:
| Component | Cost | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | $105 | 57% |
| Appliances | $30 | 16% |
| Water Heating | $20 | 11% |
| Lighting | $15 | 8% |
| Other | $15 | 8% |
Based on 1,800 sq ft home with average A/C use
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Cary. Appliances, water heating, lighting and miscellaneous uses make up the rest. Minimizing A/C runtime is key to reining in summer energy expenses.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
Fortunately, Cary residents have several options to reduce summer cooling costs:
- Sign up for off-peak billing and run major appliances at night
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your A/C schedule
- Have your ducts professionally sealed to minimize air leaks
- Plant shade trees or add window films to block solar heat gain
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to feel 3-4°F cooler.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Cary
Some utility providers offer time-based discounts to encourage energy use during off-peak hours. These “time-of-use” (TOU) rate plans charge less for power used at night or on weekends when overall electricity demand is lower.
While Cary’s utility providers don’t currently offer TOU billing, some Cary utility costs can still be reduced by running dishwashers, washing machines and other major appliances outside the peak window of 1pm to 7pm. Avoiding energy-intensive activities during the hottest part of the day helps keep costs in check.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
A: Cary’s average July bill of $185 is about 60% higher than April’s $115 average. Cooling costs are the main reason summer bills spike relative to milder months.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, a sufficiently sized solar array can significantly offset summer energy costs. However, solar savings depend on many factors like system output, home efficiency, and net metering policies.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house to save energy?
A: The US Dept. of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F while you’re home and a few degrees higher while away. Using fans and light clothing for comfort at this temp can cut cooling costs 10-15%.
Smart Cooling Prep for Cary Summers
With average July electric bills around $185, Cary households need a plan to manage summer energy costs. Expect to pay $150-$250 per month for cooling from June through August in a typical 1,800 square foot home.
To minimize expenses, keep your thermostat at 78°F or higher, run appliances during off-peak hours, and use fans to supplement your A/C. Having your cooling system tuned up in the spring can also boost efficiency. With smart preparation, you can stay cool without breaking the bank.