What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Murrieta
Residents of Murrieta, California can expect their summer energy bills to rise significantly compared to the milder spring months. As temperatures regularly soar above 90°F from June through August, air conditioning becomes a necessity for most households. This increased cooling demand drives electric bills to their highest point of the year.
According to local utility data, the average monthly electric bill in Murrieta during the summer is approximately $225. The average July electric bill in Murrieta is about $275, representing the peak of cooling costs. This is nearly double the typical electric bill during April and May.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Murrieta During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to high summer energy bills in Murrieta. The primary driver is the increased demand for air conditioning to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures in the face of extreme heat. Older homes with less efficient AC systems or inadequate insulation are especially prone to higher cooling costs.
The long daylight hours in Murrieta also play a role, as lights and appliances tend to be used more when people are active later into the evenings. Additionally, many homes in the area have pool pumps or irrigation systems that consume more electricity during the summer months. With the rise of electric vehicles, EV charging can also add to household energy usage.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To better understand where your energy dollars are going, here’s a sample breakdown of a typical summer electric bill in Murrieta:
| Component | Percentage of Bill |
|---|---|
| Cooling | 55% |
| Appliances | 15% |
| Water Heating | 12% |
| Lighting | 10% |
| Other | 8% |
Based on an 1,800 sq ft home with average A/C use.
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Murrieta. Air conditioning is by far the largest component, often exceeding the combined cost of appliances, water heating, lighting and other miscellaneous uses.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While summer electric bills are unavoidably higher, there are steps Murrieta residents can take to keep costs under control:
- Sign up for off-peak billing or time-of-use pricing plans if available
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your AC usage
- Have your ducts professionally sealed to improve cooling efficiency
- Use shade features like curtains, awnings, or tree cover to reduce heat gain
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to stay comfortable. Every degree above 72°F can save 3-5% on cooling costs.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Murrieta
Some utility providers offer time-based discounts to encourage energy use during off-peak hours. These Time-of-Use (TOU) pricing plans charge lower rates for electricity used during times of lower demand, such as late night or early morning. Peak hours, typically weekday afternoons and evenings, have higher rates.
While Murrieta’s utilities do not currently offer residential TOU plans, it’s an option worth considering if it becomes available. Shifting energy-intensive activities like laundry, dishwashing, or EV charging to off-peak hours can help offset high cooling costs under TOU billing.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
A: In Murrieta, expect your July and August electric bills to be 80-100% higher than April or May as cooling needs drive up costs.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, a properly sized solar PV system can significantly offset summer energy costs. With abundant sunshine, Murrieta is an ideal location for solar.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house at in the summer to save energy?
A: The US Dept. of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F while you’re home and a few degrees higher while away. Using fans allows comfort at higher temperatures.
Smart Cooling Prep for Murrieta Summers
With average summer electric bills ranging from $200 to over $300 per month in Murrieta, it pays to be proactive about cooling costs. Have your AC serviced, seal any leaky ducts, and consider investing in shade trees or window films.
Understanding your Murrieta utility costs is the first step to keeping bills manageable as the mercury rises. By implementing energy-saving tips and ensuring your home’s cooling system is efficient, you can stay comfortable without breaking the bank.