What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Pasadena
Residents of Pasadena, Texas can expect their electric bills to rise significantly during the hot summer months. The average July electric bill in Pasadena is about $220, nearly double the cost of more temperate months like April and October. Across June, July, and August, summer energy bills in Pasadena typically average $180 to $250 per month for a typical single-family home.
These high seasonal costs are driven by the scorching Texas heat and the need for steady air conditioning to maintain a livable indoor temperature. Cooling alone often accounts for more than half of a household’s total energy use during peak summer months in Pasadena.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Pasadena During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to exorbitant electric bills for Pasadena residents in summer. Most homes have central air conditioning systems or heat pumps that work overtime to combat outdoor temperatures that routinely exceed 95°F (35°C). Older homes with inadequate insulation and air sealing allow more heat infiltration, forcing A/C units to run longer cycles.
Additionally, the summer days in Pasadena are long, with the sun often beating down on roofs and windows for 14 hours straight. This sustained solar heat gain makes it difficult for even well-sealed homes to stay cool. Swimming pool pumps, landscape irrigation systems, and extra loads like EV charging can also add to higher-than-average electricity use.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
Here’s how a typical 1,800 square foot home’s July electric bill might break down:
| Component | Cost | % of Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | $121 | 55% |
| Appliances | $44 | 20% |
| Water Heating | $22 | 10% |
| Lighting | $17 | 8% |
| Other | $16 | 7% |
Based on 1,800 sq ft home with average A/C use
As this example illustrates, expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Pasadena. Conscientious A/C use and efficiency improvements represent the biggest opportunities for summer savings.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While some steep cooling costs are unavoidable during Pasadena’s relentless summers, residents can take steps to minimize the damage:
- Program your thermostat for 78°F when home and 85°F when away. Every degree above 72°F saves 3-5% on cooling.
- Use ceiling fans to feel 3-4°F cooler so you can set the A/C a few degrees higher.
- Have your A/C tuned up in spring to ensure peak efficiency and catch developing issues.
- Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork to minimize cooling loss.
- Close blinds and drapes during the day to block solar heat gain, especially on south- and west-facing windows.
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to stay comfortable while reducing A/C runtime.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Pasadena
Some electric providers in Pasadena offer optional Time-of-Use (TOU) rate plans. Under TOU billing, energy rates vary based on the time of day, day of week, and season. Prices are highest during weekday afternoons and early evenings when overall electricity demand peaks.
Customers can often save money with TOU plans by shifting flexible usage like laundry, dishwashing, and EV charging to mornings, nights, or weekends when off-peak rates apply. However, TOU plans may not make sense for those with limited ability to alter their consumption patterns.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
A: In Pasadena, July and August bills are often 80-100% higher than April and May when cooling needs are minimal. A $110 spring bill can easily become $220 in summer.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, a properly sized solar PV system can offset a substantial portion of summer electricity costs. However, solar customers still draw from the grid in evenings and on cloudy days, and may pay a higher rate for that power under some plans.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house to save energy?
A: The US Dept. of Energy recommends 78°F as the optimal balance of comfort and savings. Raising the setpoint to 85°F when away can cut cooling costs over 30%.
Smart Cooling Prep for Pasadena Summers
With average summer electric bills reaching $180 to $250 per month in Pasadena, taking proactive steps to manage cooling costs is essential. Have your A/C professionally maintained, improve your home’s efficiency, and be mindful of energy-wasting habits. Minor adjustments like setting thermostats higher, using fans, and closing drapes can add up to major savings.
See our guide to Pasadena Utility Costs Explained for a deeper dive into budgeting for electricity, gas, water and more.