Cut Your East Texas Summer Electric Bill: Actionable Tactics for June–August

Why now?

East Texas homeowners average $250–$450/month in peak summer electric bills. A few simple habits and a $100 filter + weatherstripping investment can meaningfully move that number.

Your Checklist

• ✓Set thermostat to 78°F when home, 82°F when away (every degree = ~3% savings)
• ✓Use ceiling fans — they allow 4°F higher thermostat settings with same comfort
• ✓Close blinds on west-facing windows in the afternoon — can reduce heat gain 30%+
• ✓Replace AC filter (a clogged filter forces your system to work harder)
• ✓Check condensate drain — a blocked drain can freeze your coil and kill cooling
• ✓Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping ($10–$30 at hardware store)
• ✓Move heat-generating appliances (dryers, ovens) to early morning or evening hours
• ✓Check attic insulation — if you can see the floor joists, you need more
• ✓Turn off lights and electronics when not in use — every watt generates heat your AC must remove
• ✓Schedule an AC tune-up if your system is running constantly and not keeping up