3 Reasons Why Your Summer Utility Bills Are Always Higher

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Only last year, summer utility bills increased by 10% across 13 of the largest US states. Therefore, it shouldn’t be too surprising if you’ve already noticed an increase in your energy consumption since summer began in June this year. However, have you wondered why the sudden spike is a common occurrence during the summer? That’s what you are about to find out in this article. It’s not all about having a thin roof for the summer. For more on this informative topic, please read further to the end.

High electricity demand

On a more technical note, the US Energy Information Administration (USEIA) says the increase in utility bills results from high demand. First of all, traditional energy generation sources become incredibly expensive during the hot months. Again, because of massive demand across the country, energy providers are compelled to increase capacity to accommodate the rising need. Therefore, whether in the residential or commercial property, you will notice an increase in your bills in these months. It doesn’t matter if you are on a fixed-rate or variable-rate plan. It affects all customers.

Increased air conditioning usage

According to US reviews, 87% of households in the country have functional air conditioners. Out of this number, 75% have ACs installed as part of their home’s central cooling unit. You will be surprised to know that having an air conditioning system in the house is even more important than having a garage or dining area. With the statistics indicated here, a whopping 67% of southern US states keep their AC units running the entire summer.

Moreover, your AC has to work twice as much to cool the house because the temperature is high outside. Now that is enough to take a toll on even the most durable cooling unit. It is even more worrying that a little over 40% of US households service or replace their AC units when necessary. If you fall in this latter group, you should know that a well-functioning, regular-serviced air conditioning unit lasts longer and is energy-efficient. In a situation where an AC replacement is the only solution, do not overlook the significance of having it changed. You’ll be thankful that you did.

Kids are home for the summer break

Usually, most US schools break for summer from late May through to August and sometimes, early September. Now, because summer in the US starts from June to September 22, it makes sense that your household’s energy needs will increase. Your kids will most likely be fixated on their gaming consoles and other electronic gadgets for entertainment. Moreover, most kids fail to completely shut down their computers when they’re done for the day. Subsequently, these machines are left to run until the subsequent use.

According to a 2018 USEIA survey, the presence of kids during the summer holidays increases energy consumption. The report also indicated that most children have no idea how unplugged electronics continue to consume energy. It, therefore, placed the responsibility on adults in the home to educate kids on these implications, to help tackle the issue of high energy bills in the summer.

To conclude, your high summer utility bills are unavoidable. However, you can take approved steps to minimize the rising costs. Energy wastage is an expensive venture, and it’s the last thing you want to be engaged in when the hot months are yet to end.