What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Lakeland
Wondering how much you can expect to pay for summer energy bills in Lakeland? With long, hot summers and high cooling demand, electric costs tend to soar from June through September. The average July electric bill in Lakeland is about $225, nearly double the $120 average in March or April.
Over the full summer, Lakeland residents typically see their power bills increase by 40-60% compared to more temperate months. Air conditioning accounts for the bulk of this seasonal surge, often contributing over half of total household energy use during peak periods.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Lakeland During the Summer?
Several factors drive up summer energy bills in Lakeland and other Florida cities. The biggest is air conditioning, which runs almost constantly during the hottest months to keep indoor temperatures comfortable. Older homes with less efficient AC systems and insulation are hit especially hard.
Lakeland’s climate and geography also play a role. As a subtropical city, it experiences long stretches of 90°F+ days and elevated humidity. This means AC has to work overtime compared to milder regions. Additionally, the area’s long daylight hours in summer lead to more active time spent at home running lights and appliances.
Other potential contributors to high summer bills include pool pumps, irrigation systems, and an increase in appliance use by kids home from school. In households with electric vehicles, seasonal travel can also boost power costs for charging.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
What exactly makes up those high summer electric bills in Lakeland? Here’s a look at how cooling and other factors contribute to a typical July energy statement:
| Component | Cost | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | $130 | 58% |
| Water Heating | $25 | 11% |
| Appliances | $40 | 18% |
| Lighting | $20 | 9% |
| Other | $10 | 4% |
Based on 1,800 sq ft home with average A/C use
As this breakdown shows, expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Lakeland. Water heating, appliance use, and lighting divide up most of the remainder. Miscellaneous items like electronics and pool equipment generally play a smaller role.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While summer energy bills in Lakeland will always trend higher, there are ways to keep costs in check. Some of the most effective strategies include:
- Adjusting your thermostat to 78°F when home and a few degrees higher overnight or when away
- Using ceiling fans to supplement AC and make rooms feel cooler
- Upgrading to a smart thermostat to optimize cooling schedules
- Having your AC serviced before the start of summer to maximize efficiency
- Sealing air leaks around doors and windows and improving insulation
- Using shade features like blinds, curtains, and awnings to block solar heat gain
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans for added comfort. Every degree above 78°F can save 3-5% on cooling costs.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Lakeland
Some utility providers offer time-based discounts to help manage costs. These time-of-use (TOU) plans charge different rates depending on when you use electricity. In Lakeland, Lakeland Electric has a TOU program with lower prices during off-peak hours.
On weekdays, off-peak rates apply from 9 pm to 6 am. Electricity used during these overnight hours costs about 30% less than the standard rate. All weekend use is also billed at the lower price.
If you have flexibility in your schedule, shifting some of your heaviest power use outside the 6 am to 9 pm peak window can help shave down bills. Even small adjustments like running appliances at night or charging an EV during off-hours can add up.
Summer Cooling FAQs
How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
In Lakeland, summer energy bills are typically 40-60% higher than in March or April. The average July bill of $225 is nearly double the $120 spring average.
Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
Yes, a solar PV system can significantly offset summer energy costs. With Lakeland’s abundant sunshine, solar panels generate the most electricity during the long summer days, helping power AC and other warm weather loads.
What temperature should I keep my house to save energy?
The US Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F while you’re home in the summer. You can go a bit higher when you’re away. Using ceiling fans allows you to raise the temperature 4°F with no loss in comfort.
Smart Cooling Prep for Lakeland Summers
With average summer electric bills ranging from $175 to $250 per month in Lakeland, it pays to be proactive about cooling costs. Servicing your AC, managing your thermostat settings, and making targeted efficiency upgrades can take some of the heat off your budget.
Looking for more ways to save? Check out our guide to utility costs in Lakeland for a full breakdown of electricity, water, and natural gas pricing.