Summer has a way of changing routines. Kids are home from school, the air conditioner is working overtime and the laundry somehow never seems to stop. For many households, seasonal changes can lead to higher energy use and bills. Understanding what may be contributing to those increases and knowing which resources are available can help you stay comfortable while managing costs.
For some families, summer means keeping the dishwasher busy and finding ways to keep the house comfortable while everyone's home. Others may be juggling the costs of running a small business during the hottest months of the year. And for electric vehicle (EV) owners, charging habits can have a noticeable impact on energy use.
Understanding how and when you're using energy can help you take control of your bill. Through My Energy Center, you can track usage and spot trends over time. You may discover that your air conditioner is running more often than expected or certain equipment is using more energy during peak business hours. Most customers are on a Time-of-Use plan, where energy costs the most from 4–9 p.m. Reducing energy use during on-peak hours can help you manage your bill.
A few simple ways to reduce energy use and manage costs include:
- Close blinds and curtains during the day
- Use fans to stay cool
- Track your energy use with My Energy Charts
- Run major appliances during lower-cost hours when possible
Small changes can add up. Being mindful when major appliances are used can also make a difference. And don’t forget, most customers can save by taking advantage of the lowest cost energy during super off-peak hours. Now super off-peak hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays all year round.
If you need additional support, we offer bill-management tools, payment options and assistance programs designed to help eligible customers manage energy costs. And if questions come up, quick help is available. Customers who contact SDG&E typically reach a representative in about 38 seconds on average.
Summer energy use doesn't look the same for everyone, but having the right information and resources can make it easier to stay cool while managing costs.
Learn ways to save energy and explore available tools and resources at sdge.com/SimpleSteps.
To explore our Summer Readiness Resource Hub, visit sdge.com/SummerReadinessHub.