What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Irving
As temperatures rise in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, so do summer energy bills in Irving. With long, hot summers and high air conditioning demand, Irving residents can expect their electricity usage and costs to spike significantly from June through August.
Based on data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average monthly electric bill in Texas is around $140. However, in the peak of summer, the average July electric bill in Irving is about $190, a 35% increase over the yearly average. Some households may see bills as high as $300 or more during extreme heat waves.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Irving During the Summer?
There are several factors that contribute to high summer energy bills in Irving. The biggest driver is the increased demand for air conditioning to keep homes cool in the sweltering Texas heat. With average high temperatures in the mid-90s°F from June through August, A/C units have to work overtime, consuming more electricity.
Other factors can compound cooling costs as well. Many Irving homes have older, less-efficient HVAC systems and insufficient insulation, causing cool air to leak out. Swimming pool pumps, landscape irrigation systems, and electric vehicle charging also add to summer energy loads. And with nearly 14 hours of daylight in peak summer, lights and electronics tend to be used more, further increasing bills.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To illustrate where your energy dollars go in the summer, here’s a sample cost breakdown for a typical 1,800 sq ft home in Irving with average A/C use:
| Component | Percent of Bill | Avg. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | 54% | $102 |
| Appliances | 20% | $38 |
| Water Heating | 14% | $27 |
| Lighting | 8% | $15 |
| Other | 4% | $8 |
As you can see, cooling accounts for over 50% of the typical July electric bill in Irving. Finding ways to improve your A/C efficiency can make a big impact on summer energy expenses.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While some increase in summer energy costs is inevitable, there are steps Irving residents can take to minimize the impact on their wallets:
- Sign up for a time-of-use plan to get lower rates during off-peak hours
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your A/C settings
- Have your ductwork inspected and sealed to prevent cool air leaks
- Use ceiling fans and window coverings to reduce the load on your A/C
🏆 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. You can save 3-5% on cooling costs for each degree above 72°F.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Irving
Some electricity providers in Irving, like TXU Energy and Reliant, offer time-of-use (TOU) pricing plans. Under these plans, energy rates vary based on the time of day, with peak hours (usually weekday afternoons) costing more than off-peak and weekend hours.
By shifting more of your energy usage to mornings, evenings, and weekends, you can take advantage of lower off-peak rates to reduce your overall bill. Rates and peak times vary by provider, so compare TOU plans to see if the savings make sense for your household’s needs and habits.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
A: In Irving, summer bills from June-August tend to be 30-50% higher than in March-May. The increase depends on factors like your home’s efficiency, A/C use, and cooling habits.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, installing solar panels can significantly offset summer energy expenses. Your panels will generate the most electricity during long summer days, supplying clean power for cooling. Many Irving homes can cut their bills in half with a well-designed solar PV system.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house at in the summer to save energy?
A: The U.S. Dept. of Energy recommends setting your central A/C to 78°F when you’re home in the summer. When away or asleep, you can set it 4-5 degrees higher to use less energy. Using fans and closing curtains can help you feel cooler without lowering the temperature.
Smart Cooling Prep for Irving Summers
With average summer electric bills in Irving ranging from $150 to over $200 per month, it pays to be proactive about cooling costs. Making efficiency upgrades, optimizing your A/C settings, and choosing an energy plan with summer-focused perks can help you keep utility costs under control.
By understanding how much energy your cooling system uses and taking simple steps to reduce waste, you can stay comfortable without breaking the bank. A few smart preparations can help ensure an enjoyable, affordable summer in Irving.