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July 13, 2026

Read about our staffGreetings!

I know I've been talking a great deal about the AC but I am in shock how much my electric bill has gone up.

The debate happens every time a new bill arrives, do I keep the house nice and cool, or do I brace myself for another sky-high electric bill? Thankfully, I got an email from my electric provider that makes so much sense.

One of the easiest ways to save isn't buying a new air conditioner or suffering through a hot house. It's simply changing when your home does most of its cooling. With a little planning, you can stay comfortable while using less electricity when rates are often at their highest.

Be Well,
Anisa

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Cool Your Home Before the Hottest Hours

Thrifty

Photo: A few small thermostat adjustments throughout the day can help keep your home comfortable while using less energy during expensive peak hours.

Instead of waiting until late afternoon when temperatures peak, let your air conditioner do more of the work earlier in the day.

During the morning and early afternoon, set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Then, between about 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., lower it by a few degrees so your home stores some of that cool air before the hottest part of the evening.

When peak demand arrives, you can raise the thermostat by about 3 degrees. Because your home has already been cooled, your air conditioner won't have to work as hard, helping reduce energy use while keeping your home comfortable.

Many utility companies charge more during peak hours, so shifting your cooling schedule can translate into noticeable savings over the course of the summer.

Let Technology Do the Work

Big Deal BSIf remembering thermostat changes sounds like a hassle, a smart thermostat can handle everything automatically.

You can program temperature changes based on the time of day, and many models even let you adjust settings from your smartphone if your plans change. Some utilities also offer rebates on smart thermostats, making the upgrade even more affordable.

Even if your electric company doesn't have time-of-use pricing, precooling can still reduce the strain on your air conditioner during the hottest hours of the day, helping it run more efficiently and potentially extending its lifespan.

In Closing

Saving money doesn't always require major sacrifices. Sometimes it's simply about working with the clock instead of against it. A few small thermostat adjustments today could mean a cooler home, a happier wallet, and one less surprise when your next electric bill arrives.

Got a tip of your own? Reply back to me, I love reading your tips and ideas!


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