What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Denver
As temperatures rise in the Mile High City, so do summer energy bills in Denver. Residents often see their electricity costs spike during the hottest months of the year, with cooling accounting for a significant portion of the increase. The average July electric bill in Denver is about $150, a notable jump from the more moderate spring and fall seasons.
This surge in energy consumption is primarily driven by the increased use of air conditioning systems, which work overtime to keep homes comfortable during Denver’s sweltering summer days. With average high temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s throughout June, July, and August, it’s no surprise that cooling costs make up a substantial chunk of summer energy bills.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Denver During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to the steep rise in Denver’s summer energy bills. First and foremost is the heightened demand for air conditioning. As residents crank up their A/C units to combat the heat, electricity consumption skyrockets. This is especially true for homes with older, less efficient cooling systems or inadequate insulation, which require more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Another factor is the prevalence of heat pumps in Denver homes. While these systems are energy-efficient for heating during the colder months, they can struggle to keep up with extreme summer temperatures, leading to increased electricity usage. Additionally, the city’s high elevation and long daylight hours during the summer can contribute to higher cooling needs and, consequently, higher energy bills.
Other energy-consuming culprits during the summer months may include pool pumps, irrigation systems, and even electric vehicle charging. As residents spend more time outdoors and engage in summer activities, these additional power draws can add up quickly on monthly utility statements.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To better understand how cooling costs impact summer energy bills in Denver, let’s take a look at a sample breakdown for a typical 1,800 square foot home with average A/C use:
| Component | Percentage of Total Bill |
|---|---|
| Cooling | 55% |
| Appliances | 20% |
| Water Heating | 15% |
| Lighting | 5% |
| Other | 5% |
As the table illustrates, expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Denver. This substantial share highlights the significant impact that air conditioning has on summer energy costs in the city.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While summer energy bills in Denver can be daunting, there are several strategies residents can employ to reduce their cooling costs:
- Take advantage of off-peak billing, if available, by running major appliances and charging electric vehicles during lower-cost hours.
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your cooling schedule and avoid wasting energy when you’re away from home.
- Seal air ducts and improve insulation to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from infiltrating your living space.
- Use shade features like trees, awnings, or blinds to block sunlight and reduce the workload on your A/C system.
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to create a comfortable breeze. Every degree above 72°F can save you up to 3% on your cooling costs.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Denver
Some utility providers in Denver, such as Xcel Energy, offer time-of-use (TOU) pricing plans. These plans incentivize customers to shift their energy consumption to off-peak hours by charging lower rates during periods of low demand. Typically, peak hours occur on weekday afternoons and evenings, while off-peak hours include nights, weekends, and holidays.
By taking advantage of TOU pricing and adjusting your energy usage habits accordingly, you can potentially save money on your summer utility bills. However, it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of any TOU plan to ensure it aligns with your household’s energy needs and consumption patterns.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer bills compared to spring?
A: On average, Denver residents can expect their summer energy bills to be 30-50% higher than their spring bills, primarily due to increased cooling costs.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, installing solar panels can significantly reduce your summer energy costs by generating electricity during peak sunlight hours, offsetting the need to purchase power from the grid.
Q: What temp should I keep my house at to save energy?
A: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and awake, and raising it a few degrees when you’re away or asleep to save energy and money.
Smart Cooling Prep for Denver Summers
As you gear up for another sizzling summer in Denver, keep in mind that the average monthly electric bill can range from $120 to $180 during the hottest months. By implementing energy-saving tips like using a smart thermostat, sealing air leaks, and taking advantage of off-peak pricing, you can minimize the impact of cooling costs on your budget.
Remember, small changes in your daily habits can add up to significant savings over time. For more information on managing your utility costs and optimizing your home’s energy efficiency, check out our in-depth guide on Denver Utility Costs Explained.