What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Roswell
Roswell residents can expect their summer energy bills to climb significantly compared to the milder spring and fall months. The average monthly electric bill from June through August in Roswell is around $180, a sharp increase from April and May. The average July electric bill in Roswell peaks at about $210, making it the most expensive month.
These high summer costs are driven by the intense cooling demands required to keep homes comfortable in Roswell’s hot, humid climate. Air conditioning alone can account for over half of a household’s energy use during the peak summer months.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Roswell During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to expensive summer electric bills for Roswell residents. The primary driver is heavy air conditioning use needed to combat high temperatures and humidity. Cooling systems have to work overtime, consuming significant amounts of electricity to maintain indoor comfort.
Roswell’s older housing stock can also play a role. Many homes have less efficient insulation and windows, allowing more heat gain that strains AC systems. Pool pumps, irrigation systems, and increased use of appliances like refrigerators in hot weather can further drive up summer energy usage.
Additionally, the long daylight hours in summer months mean lights and electronics often stay on later into the evening, adding to overall household energy consumption even if rates are lower than during peak AC use times.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To better understand where your summer energy dollars go, here’s a look at how cooling costs compare to other uses:
| Usage Area | Percent of Bill |
|---|---|
| Cooling | 55% |
| Water Heating | 15% |
| Appliances | 12% |
| Lighting | 10% |
| Other | 8% |
Based on an 1,800 sq ft home with average AC use.
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Roswell. Water heating is the next biggest component, followed by appliance and lighting use. Miscellaneous items like electronics and pool pumps make up the remainder.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While summer cooling costs are high, Roswell residents have several options to keep bills in check:
- Sign up for off-peak or time-of-use billing to access lower rates during less busy times
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your AC usage and avoid waste
- Seal air leaks around doors, windows, and ductwork to minimize cooling loss
- Use shade trees, awnings, or window films to reduce the amount of heat entering your home
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to feel cooler while using less AC.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Roswell
Some Roswell utility providers like Georgia Power offer optional Time-of-Use (TOU) rate plans. Under this pricing structure, electricity rates vary based on the time of day and demand on the grid.
Typically, prices are highest during weekday peak hours (2pm-7pm) when energy use is greatest. Rates are lower during off-peak times like nights and weekends. This rewards customers who can shift more of their energy use to off-peak periods.
TOU plans can help lower summer bills for households that are able to use major appliances and cooling more heavily during discount hours. However, the on-peak prices are usually much higher, so these plans work best if you have flexibility in your daily energy use.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills in Roswell compared to spring?
A: Summer energy bills in Roswell are often 30-50% higher than in April or May. Cooling costs are the main driver, accounting for over half of summer energy use.
Q: Does solar help reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, solar panels can significantly offset high cooling bills. With ample sun, solar can cover a good portion of AC use. Excess energy is also sold back to the grid for credits.
Q: What’s the best thermostat temp for summer energy savings?
A: Aim to set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and a few degrees higher when away. Every degree above 72°F saves 3-5% on cooling costs.
Smart Cooling Prep for Roswell Summers
With average summer electric bills ranging from $150 to over $200 per month in Roswell, it pays to be proactive about cooling costs. Adopt energy-saving habits early, like optimizing your thermostat settings and using fans to supplement your AC.
Making cost-effective upgrades like sealing air leaks, adding insulation, or installing solar screens can also improve your home’s efficiency and cut ongoing bills. When it’s time to replace your cooling system, look for a high-efficiency unit with a good SEER rating.
By taking steps to minimize cooling waste and capitalize on off-peak rates when available, you can keep your summer energy bills under control while still staying comfortable in Roswell’s heat. For more ways to manage your household expenses, check out our complete Roswell Utility Costs Explained guide.