What Summer Power Costs Look Like in Wheaton
As temperatures climb, so do summer energy bills in Wheaton. Keeping your home cool and comfortable from June through August comes at a cost. The typical household in Wheaton can expect their monthly electric bills to average around $180 during the summer months, with spikes in July and August. The average July electric bill in Wheaton is about $210, nearly 40% higher than in May.
These figures assume a 1,800 square foot home with central air conditioning set to a modest 75°F. Larger homes, lower thermostat settings, and above-average use of other appliances can push bills even higher. It’s not uncommon for some Wheaton residents to see monthly summer electric bills over $300.
Why Are Energy Bills So High in Wheaton During the Summer?
Several factors contribute to high summer energy bills in Wheaton. The biggest driver is air conditioning. Cooling makes up a majority of electricity use during hot months as AC systems work overtime to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Older homes with poor insulation and aging HVAC equipment are especially prone to high cooling costs.
Wheaton’s climate plays a role too. As a suburb of Chicago, Wheaton experiences warm, humid summers with average high temperatures in the low-to-mid 80s. Occasional heat waves can push temperatures into the 90s. Those conditions keep air conditioners running frequently. Additionally, Wheaton’s northern latitude means long summer days with extended sunlight hours that heat up homes.
Other summer-specific energy needs add to costs as well. Many homes have pool pumps running regularly. Landscape irrigation systems use pumps to pressurize sprinklers. Some households see a bump in water heating costs with kids home from school. And with more electric vehicles on Wheaton roads, EV charging can noticeably increase home electricity use.
Sample Monthly Bill Breakdown
What exactly makes up those high summer electric bills in Wheaton? Here’s a look at how cooling compares to other major household energy expenses:
| Electricity Expense | Percent of Bill |
|---|---|
| Cooling | 55% |
| Appliances & Electronics | 20% |
| Water Heating | 15% |
| Lighting | 8% |
| Other | 2% |
Based on an 1,800 sq ft home in Wheaton with average central AC use.
Expect cooling to account for 50–60% of your July energy bill in Wheaton. Air conditioning is by far the biggest contributor to summer electric costs. Refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers, and electronics collectively make up the next largest chunk. Water heating is the third main component, especially if you have an electric water heater.
Ways to Lower Summer Energy Bills
While some summer energy cost increase is inevitable in Wheaton, there are ways to keep bills under control:
- Sign up for off-peak billing, if available, to get discounts for shifting flexible usage to nights and weekends.
- Install a smart thermostat to optimize your AC cycles and avoid over-cooling.
- Have your ducts inspected and sealed to improve cooling efficiency and airflow.
- Use landscaping, awnings, or window films to shade your home from strong sunlight.
🏆 Energy Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F during the day and rely on ceiling fans to feel cooler. Every degree above 75°F saves about 3% on cooling costs.
Time-of-Use Pricing in Wheaton
Some utility providers offer time-based discounts for electricity use during off-peak hours. These time-of-use (TOU) rate plans charge lower prices on nights, weekends, and holidays when overall grid demand is lower. Rates are higher during weekday afternoons and evenings.
TOU plans can help you save if you’re able to shift flexible electricity use—like running the dishwasher or charging an EV—to off-peak times. However, these plans make on-peak AC use even more expensive. Consider your household’s needs and schedule to see if TOU pricing could lower your summer bills.
Summer Cooling FAQs
How much more are summer electric bills compared to spring?
In Wheaton, expect your July and August bills to be about 30-40% higher than May or June. Bills can double if you heavily use AC.
Does solar reduce summer energy costs?
Yes, solar panels can significantly offset summer electricity costs. A south-facing 6kW system in Wheaton can generate 750-850 kWh per month, saving $90-$100 on summer bills.
What temperature should I keep my house to save energy?
Aim for 78°F when you’re home and awake, and 82-85°F overnight or when away. Use fans, light clothing, and cold drinks to feel cooler.
Smart Cooling Prep for Wheaton Summers
With some planning, you can beat the heat without breaking the bank. Expect to pay $150-$250 per month for electricity in June, July and August. Take advantage of Wheaton utility costs explained to understand your bill. Use fans and natural ventilation to minimize AC. Consider off-peak rates or solar to optimize your energy spending.
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your wallet and your home comfortable during hot Wheaton summers. Explore more tips to manage your household budget and improve energy efficiency to make summer a breeze.