What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Centennial
As temperatures rise, so do summer energy bills in Centennial. Residents can expect their electricity costs to peak in July and August, when air conditioning use is at its highest. The average monthly electric bill for a Centennial household from June through August is around $180. The average July electric bill in Centennial is about $210, representing a significant jump from spring and fall months.
These elevated summer costs are common across the Denver metro area. Nearby cities like Aurora and Lakewood experience similar spikes in electricity use during the hottest months. However, Centennial’s larger homes and high air conditioning adoption rate can push bills even higher than the regional average.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Centennial During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to high summer energy bills in Centennial. The primary driver is increased demand for air conditioning. As outdoor temperatures routinely exceed 90°F, air conditioners and heat pumps work overtime to keep homes cool. Older or poorly insulated houses require even more cooling energy to maintain comfort.
Centennial’s high elevation and abundant sunshine also play a role. Longer daylight hours mean more time for the sun to heat up homes, leading to a greater cooling burden. Additionally, features like pool pumps, irrigation systems, and electric vehicle charging can contribute to higher summer electricity use for some households.
While natural gas is the primary heating fuel in Centennial, some homes rely on electric resistance heating or heat pumps. These systems generally use more energy and cost more to operate than gas furnaces, further impacting summer bills for those households.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To better understand where summer energy costs come from, consider this sample breakdown for an 1,800 square foot Centennial home with average air conditioning use:
| Component | Percent of Bill |
|---|---|
| Cooling | 55% |
| Appliances | 20% |
| Water Heating | 12% |
| Lighting | 8% |
| Other | 5% |
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Centennial. Refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and other major appliances are the next largest contributors. Water heating costs remain relatively steady year-round, while lighting and electronics make up a smaller share of summer bills compared to other seasons.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
Fortunately, Centennial residents have several options to manage summer energy costs:
- Take advantage of off-peak billing hours to run appliances and charge EVs overnight or on weekends
- Install a smart thermostat to automatically optimize cooling schedules
- Seal air leaks and improve insulation to minimize heat gain
- Use shade trees, awnings, or window films to block solar heat
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and lighting
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to maintain comfort. Every degree above 72°F saves 3-5% on cooling costs.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Centennial
Some utility providers offer time-based discounts to encourage energy use during off-peak hours. These “time-of-use” rates charge less for electricity used at night or on weekends when overall demand is lower. Check with your utility to see if a time-of-use plan could help you save.
Xcel Energy, the primary electric utility in Centennial, offers both standard tiered rates and time-of-use pricing. Under the time-of-use plan, electricity used during off-peak hours costs about 30% less than the standard rate. However, peak hour rates are nearly double the standard price, so it’s important to shift usage to off-peak times to realize savings.
Summer Cooling FAQs
How much more are summer bills compared to spring?
In Centennial, expect your July electric bill to be 30-50% higher than what you pay in April or May. Air conditioning is the primary cause of this seasonal increase.
Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
Yes, a appropriately sized solar panel system can significantly offset summer energy costs. Centennial’s abundant sunshine is well-suited for solar production, and panels are most productive during the long summer days when electricity demand peaks.
What temperature should I keep my house to save energy?
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F while you’re home in the summer. When you’re away, let the temperature rise to 85°F or higher. Avoid setting the thermostat below 72°F, as this dramatically increases cooling costs.
Smart Cooling Prep for Centennial Summers
With average summer electric bills reaching $180 or more, Centennial residents need to be proactive about managing cooling costs. Simple steps like adjusting your thermostat, using fans, and shifting appliance use to off-peak hours can keep bills under control. Explore Centennial utility costs to better understand your monthly expenses and savings opportunities.
By following these tips and making strategic efficiency upgrades, you can stay cool and keep your budget in check through even the hottest Colorado summers. A little preparation goes a long way in optimizing home comfort and energy performance.