What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Taylorsville
Residents of Taylorsville, UT can expect their summer energy bills to rise significantly compared to the milder spring and fall months. With long, hot summer days and high demand for air conditioning, electricity usage and costs tend to peak in June, July, and August. The average July electric bill in Taylorsville is about $180, nearly double the cost of a typical April or May bill.
Several factors contribute to high summer energy bills in Taylorsville. Cooling a home requires a significant amount of electricity, especially during extended heatwaves. Older homes with less efficient insulation and windows allow more heat gain, forcing air conditioners to work harder. Additionally, the Wasatch Front region experiences long daylight hours in the summer, leading to more active time spent at home using appliances and electronics.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Taylorsville During the Summer?
The primary driver of high summer electric bills in Taylorsville is the increased demand for air conditioning. As outdoor temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, central A/C systems and heat pumps are running for longer cycles to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Older HVAC equipment and leaky ductwork can compound cooling costs.
In addition to A/C, other summer-specific energy needs contribute to higher bills. Swimming pool pumps and filters often run for several hours per day. Landscape and garden irrigation controllers tap into household electricity. With more people at home during the day, daily appliance and lighting use also tends to be higher than in other seasons.
Another factor is the growing adoption of electric vehicles. Taylorsville residents who charge an EV at home will see this usage reflected in their summer energy bills, especially if charging during peak afternoon and early evening hours when rates are higher.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
To better understand how summer energy costs accumulate, consider this sample monthly cost breakdown for a typical 1,800 square foot home in Taylorsville with average air conditioning use:
| Usage Area | Percent of Bill | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | 54% | $97 |
| Appliances & Electronics | 20% | $36 |
| Water Heating | 14% | $25 |
| Lighting | 8% | $14 |
| Other | 4% | $8 |
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Taylorsville. This equates to $90 to $110 per month for an average-sized home. Your exact costs will vary based on the size and age of your home, A/C usage preferences, and the efficiency of your cooling system.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While some summer bill increase is inevitable, Taylorsville residents can take several steps to manage costs:
- Sign up for off-peak billing or time-of-use rates with your utility provider to access lower prices during early morning and late evening hours.
- Install a smart or programmable thermostat to automate temperature setbacks while you’re away or asleep.
- Have your HVAC ductwork inspected and sealed to minimize air leaks and improve cooling circulation.
- Plant shade trees or install awnings on south and west facing windows to block solar heat gain.
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and use ceiling fans to maintain comfort. Every degree higher can reduce your cooling costs by 3-5%.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Taylorsville
Some utility providers offer time-based discounts to encourage energy usage during off-peak hours. Rocky Mountain Power, which serves Taylorsville and much of the Wasatch Front, has optional Time of Use pricing. Under this plan, electricity rates are lower during late night and early morning hours, on weekends, and on major holidays. Rates increase during the late afternoon and evening peak hours.
If your home has a smart meter, shifting more of your electricity usage to off-peak hours can help offset the higher costs of cooling during the heat of the day. Examples include running major appliances like dishwashers and washing machines at night or on weekends and charging electric vehicles during cheaper off-peak windows.
Summer Cooling FAQs
Q: How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
A: In Taylorsville, July and August bills tend to be 40-60% higher than April and May when cooling needs are minimal. An average July bill of $180 is nearly double a typical $90-$100 spring bill.
Q: Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
A: Yes, a appropriately-sized solar PV system can significantly offset summer energy costs. South- and west-facing panels will generate the most electricity during the sunniest summer months, supplying power for cooling. A local solar installer can estimate potential savings.
Q: What temperature should I keep my house at in the summer to save energy?
A: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F while you’re home in the summer. When you’re away, a setting of 85°F or higher will minimize cooling costs. Smart thermostats can automate this for you based on your schedule and preferences.
Smart Cooling Prep for Taylorsville Summers
With some planning and energy-efficient practices, Taylorsville residents can keep their summer electric bills under control. Expect to pay $150 to $225 per month to cool an average single-family home. Costs will be on the lower end of that range for newer, well-insulated homes with high-efficiency A/C systems and on the higher end for older, draftier homes with aging cooling equipment.
Making strategic efficiency upgrades, taking advantage of off-peak rates, and following energy-saving tips like the thermostat setting guidance above can help you minimize summer utility costs. For a more in-depth look at where your energy dollars go, review our guide to Taylorsville Utility Costs Explained.