What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Ontario
As temperatures rise in Ontario, so do summer energy bills. Residents often see their highest electric bills of the year in June, July, and August. The average July electric bill in Ontario is about $220, driven largely by air conditioning use during the region’s hottest months.
While exact costs vary based on home size, insulation, and cooling habits, most households can expect their summer energy bills in Ontario to be 30-50% higher than in spring or fall. Larger homes with older HVAC systems may see even greater seasonal spikes.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Ontario During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to high summer energy costs in Ontario. Air conditioning is the biggest driver, accounting for over half of most electric bills in July and August. Heat pumps, which are common in Ontario homes, must work harder to cool indoor air when outdoor temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C).
Older homes with less efficient insulation and windows allow more heat gain, forcing A/C systems to run longer. Ontario’s long summer daylight hours also mean more time spent indoors using appliances and electronics. In some cases, pool pumps, irrigation systems, and EV charging can add to summer utility costs.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
Here’s how a typical summer electric bill might break down for an 1,800 sq ft home in Ontario with average A/C use:
| Component | Cost | % of Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | $115 | 52% |
| Appliances | $40 | 18% |
| Electronics | $25 | 11% |
| Lighting | $15 | 7% |
| Water Heating | $15 | 7% |
| Other | $10 | 5% |
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Ontario. Actual breakdowns will vary by home size, occupancy, A/C settings, and other factors, but this gives a general idea of summer cost allocation.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While summer bills are unavoidably higher, there are ways Ontario residents can reduce cooling costs:
- Sign up for off-peak billing and run major appliances at night
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize A/C settings
- Have your ducts professionally sealed to improve airflow
- Plant shade trees or install awnings to block solar heat
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to feel 3-4°F cooler.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Ontario
Some Ontario utility providers like Southern California Edison (SCE) offer time-of-use pricing plans. Under TOU billing, electricity rates are higher during “peak” afternoon and evening hours but lower at night and on weekends.
Switching to a TOU plan and shifting energy-intensive activities like laundry, dishwashing, and EV charging to off-peak hours can help lower summer bills. Compare rate plans carefully to see if TOU pricing makes sense for your home and habits.
Summer Cooling FAQs
How much more are summer bills compared to spring?
In Ontario, expect your July electric bill to be about 30-50% higher than in April. Exact increases depend on your A/C use and home efficiency.
Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
Yes, solar panels can significantly offset summer bills by generating electricity during sunny peak hours. However, savings depend on system size, orientation, and net metering policies.
What temp should I keep my house to save energy?
The US Dept. of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and a few degrees higher when away. Every degree above 72°F saves about 3% on cooling costs.
Smart Cooling Prep for Ontario Summers
With average July electric bills around $220 in Ontario, planning ahead is key to managing summer energy costs. Simple changes like raising your thermostat a few degrees, using fans strategically, and optimizing your major appliances can add up to real savings.
For personalized tips on reducing your summer utility bills, consider an energy audit or consult your local provider about efficiency rebates and billing options. With a little preparation, you can stay cool and in control of your energy use all summer long.