What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Fontana
As temperatures rise in the Inland Empire, so do summer energy bills in Fontana. Residents can expect their electricity costs to peak from June through August, with the average July electric bill in Fontana reaching about $220. This is a significant increase compared to the milder spring months, when bills may average closer to $120.
The main driver of these higher summer costs is the increased demand for air conditioning to keep homes comfortable in the scorching heat. With daytime highs regularly topping 95°F, cooling systems work overtime and consume more electricity. This, combined with longer daylight hours and increased use of appliances like refrigerators and pool pumps, leads to steeper bills.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Fontana During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to the surge in Fontana’s summer energy bills. First and foremost is the reliance on air conditioning. As outdoor temperatures soar, A/C units run for longer cycles to maintain indoor comfort, drawing more power. Older, less efficient cooling systems and homes with poor insulation compound this effect.
In addition to A/C demand, other summer-specific energy needs add to the bill. Many homes in Fontana use electric heat pump water heaters, which work harder in the summer to provide hot water. Pool pumps and irrigation systems also see increased use during the warmer months. With more people at home during the day and kids out of school, overall household energy consumption tends to rise.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To better understand where your energy dollars go in the summer, consider this sample breakdown for a typical 1,800 sq ft home in Fontana with average A/C use:
| Component | Percent of Bill |
|---|---|
| Cooling | 55% |
| Water Heating | 15% |
| Appliances | 12% |
| Lighting | 10% |
| Other | 8% |
As you can see, cooling accounts for the lion’s share of summer energy use. Expect air conditioning to make up 50–60% of your July electric bill in Fontana. Finding ways to optimize your A/C usage can therefore have a big impact on controlling costs.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While some increase in summer energy expenses is inevitable, there are steps Fontana residents can take to minimize costs:
- Enroll in off-peak billing or time-of-use plans to get lower rates during certain hours
- Install a smart thermostat to automate A/C settings and avoid waste
- Have your ducts inspected and sealed to improve cooling efficiency
- Use shade trees, awnings, or window films to reduce solar heat gain
🏆 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. Ceiling fans can help you feel cooler without lowering the temperature.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Fontana
Some utility providers, including Southern California Edison (SCE), offer time-of-use (TOU) pricing plans to customers in Fontana. Under these rate structures, electricity prices vary based on the time of day and day of the week. Typically, prices are higher during “peak” hours on weekday afternoons and evenings, and lower during “off-peak” hours overnight and on weekends.
By shifting more of your energy use to off-peak times, such as running the dishwasher or charging an electric vehicle at night, you can take advantage of lower rates and reduce your overall bill. TOU plans do require some adjustment to your routines, but can pay off in the summer when peak cooling demands drive up costs.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring in Fontana?
A: Summer bills in Fontana are often 50-80% higher than in the spring, mainly due to increased A/C use. A typical home may see their monthly electricity costs rise from around $120 in April to $220 or more in July.
Q: Does solar power reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, installing solar panels can significantly lower your summer bills by generating free electricity from the abundant sunshine. However, you will still receive a bill for any power you draw from the grid, especially in the evenings.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house at in the summer to save energy?
A: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home in the summer. You can raise it a bit when you’re away or asleep. Aim for the highest comfortable temperature to minimize cooling costs.
Smart Cooling Prep for Fontana Summers
With some preparation and smart strategies, Fontana residents can keep their summer energy bills under control. While an increase is expected—typically in the range of $180 to $280 per month for an average home—you don’t have to break the bank to stay cool.
Focus on optimizing your A/C use, taking advantage of off-peak hours if available, and making small changes like using fans and managing solar heat gain. With a few proactive steps and an eye on your [utility costs breakdown](/fontana-ca/utilities-breakdown/), you can chill out without the bill-induced stress this summer.