Summer in South Texas means high temperatures and high electricity bills. Air conditioning can account for 60-70% of your summer energy use. These tips will help you stay comfortable while keeping costs down.
typical summer temperatures
of summer energy goes to cooling
highest demand on the grid
Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat is the single most important factor in your summer energy bill. The Department of Energy recommends these settings:
Smart Thermostat Tips
- Program your schedule: Set temperatures automatically based on when you're home, away, or sleeping
- Use "Auto" fan mode: The fan runs only when cooling, rather than continuously
- Don't set it lower to cool faster: Your AC cools at the same rate regardless of the setting
- Consider a smart thermostat: Wi-Fi thermostats let you adjust settings remotely and learn your patterns
Air Conditioning Maintenance
A well-maintained AC system runs more efficiently and lasts longer.
Change Filters Monthly
Dirty filters restrict airflow and make your AC work harder. Check filters every 30 days during heavy use.
Clear the Outdoor Unit
Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around your outdoor condenser. Remove leaves, grass, and debris.
Schedule Annual Service
Professional maintenance catches problems early and keeps your system running at peak efficiency.
Signs Your AC Needs Attention
- Unusual noises or odors
- Uneven cooling between rooms
- Higher than normal energy bills
- Ice forming on the unit
- System running constantly without reaching set temperature
Reduce Heat Gain
Keeping heat out of your home is often easier than removing it with air conditioning.
Windows & Sunlight
Windows are a major source of heat gain, especially those facing south and west:
- Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day (typically 10 AM - 6 PM)
- Install solar screens - can block up to 70% of solar heat
- Apply window film - reflective films reduce heat gain without blocking views
- Consider awnings - exterior shading is more effective than interior
- Plant shade trees - strategically placed trees can reduce cooling costs by 25%
BPUB offers rebates for solar screens and window upgrades.
Appliances & Electronics
Appliances generate heat that your AC must remove:
- Avoid using the oven during afternoon hours - use the microwave, slow cooker, or grill instead
- Run the dishwasher at night - it generates heat and humidity
- Do laundry in the morning or evening - dryers add significant heat
- Unplug unused electronics - even in standby mode, they generate heat
- Use exhaust fans - run bathroom and kitchen fans to remove heat and humidity
Lighting
Incandescent bulbs convert 90% of their energy to heat:
- Switch to LED bulbs - they produce 75% less heat than incandescent
- Turn off lights when not in use
- Use task lighting - illuminate only the areas you need
- Take advantage of daylight - but use blinds to control direct sunlight
Attic & Insulation
Your attic can reach 150°F or higher in summer, and that heat radiates down into your living space:
- Add insulation - R-38 or higher is recommended for South Texas
- Seal air leaks - around light fixtures, ductwork, and the attic hatch
- Install radiant barrier - reflects heat back toward the roof
- Ensure proper ventilation - ridge vents and soffit vents help remove hot air
BPUB offers rebates for insulation upgrades.
Peak Demand Conservation
During extreme heat, the Texas power grid experiences its highest demand. ERCOT may issue conservation appeals asking all Texans to reduce electricity use, especially during peak hours (3-7 PM).
Pre-Cooling Strategy
Before peak hours begin (before 3 PM):
- Lower your thermostat 2-3 degrees to pre-cool your home
- Close all blinds and curtains
- Run the dishwasher and do laundry
- Then raise the thermostat during peak hours
Your pre-cooled home will stay comfortable even at a higher thermostat setting.
Ceiling Fans & Ventilation
Ceiling fans can make you feel 4°F cooler without lowering the temperature.
Whole House Ventilation
On cooler evenings (below 80°F):
- Open windows on opposite sides of your home
- Use window fans to pull cool air in and push hot air out
- Turn off the AC and let natural ventilation cool your home
- Close up the house in the morning before it gets hot
Pool & Outdoor Tips
If you have a pool, it can be a significant energy user:
- Run the pool pump during off-peak hours (before 3 PM or after 7 PM)
- Reduce pump run time - most pools need only 6-8 hours of filtration
- Use a variable-speed pump - they use up to 70% less energy
- Cover the pool when not in use to reduce evaporation and debris
Get More Savings
BPUB offers rebates on energy-efficient upgrades that can significantly reduce your summer cooling costs.
Additional Resources
- ENERGY STAR Cooling Tips - EPA guidance on efficient cooling
- Department of Energy - Summer Savings - Federal energy conservation tips
- ERCOT Conservation Tips - Texas grid conservation guidance
- Texas A&M AgriLife - Beat the Heat - Regional climate adaptation resources