Why Your Power Bill Spikes During Summer — and What You Can Do About It

Introduction

If your electric bill makes you sweat more than the summer heat, you’re not alone. Every year, homeowners across the Inland Empire see their energy costs jump the moment temperatures rise.

But it’s not just your air conditioner. Hidden energy hogs, aging wiring, and inefficient habits all add up — and most people don’t even realize it.

Here’s what’s really driving your summer power bills through the roof, and what you can do to keep your costs under control without sacrificing comfort.

Your A/C Is Working Overtime

No surprise here — cooling your home can account for 40–50% of your total energy use in the summer.

But even small issues — like dirty filters, blocked vents, or undersized circuits — can make your system run longer than it should.

Pro tip: Keep filters clean, set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away, and make sure your HVAC is on a dedicated circuit to avoid energy loss.

Old Wiring Wastes Power

If your home was built before the 1990s, your wiring might not be designed for modern electrical loads.

Loose connections, corrosion, and outdated breaker panels can cause voltage drops, forcing appliances to work harder and use more power.

Solution: Have your wiring and panel checked at least once every few years — upgrades often pay for themselves in energy savings and safety.

Phantom Power Adds Up

Even when you turn off your TV, gaming console, or computer, many devices stay in standby mode and continue drawing electricity — also known as vampire load.

Pro tip: Use smart plugs or power strips that automatically cut power when not in use. You could save $100–$200 per year without changing anything else.

Lighting and Appliances Overheat, Too

Incandescent bulbs and older appliances waste a ton of energy as heat.

That extra heat makes your air conditioner run even longer — doubling your energy costs.

Pro tip: Switch to LED lighting and ENERGY STAR-rated appliances to reduce both power use and indoor heat.

The Grid Gets Stressed — and Rates Go Up

During extreme heat waves, demand across California spikes. Utilities sometimes increase rates during “peak hours” (usually 4–9 p.m.) when everyone’s cooling their homes at once.

Pro tip: Shift heavy energy use — laundry, dishwashers, EV charging — to off-peak hours or overnight to save significantly.

Why This Article Matters

Summer electricity bills don’t have to be painful. With a few smart changes — and a quick electrical checkup — you can keep your home cool, efficient, and safe all season long.

At Franco Power, we specialize in electrical tune-ups, panel upgrades, and smart energy solutions designed for California’s climate.

Stay cool, save energy, and keep your wiring ready for whatever summer throws your way.