Texas summers are legendary for their heat, and for many homeowners and renters, that means a constant battle against rising electric bills. Even with a fixed-rate energy plan, which offers welcome stability, simply having the plan isn’t enough to guarantee optimal savings. The real power lies in how you manage your home’s biggest energy consumer: your HVAC system.

Optimize Your HVAC for Peak Performance

A fixed-rate energy plan provides predictability, shielding you from price spikes during peak demand. But to truly leverage this stability, you need to ensure your air conditioning isn’t working harder (and costing more) than necessary. Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial. Simple tasks like replacing air filters monthly can significantly improve efficiency, allowing your system to cool your home without excessive strain. Consider professional tune-ups annually to keep your unit running at its best, extending its life, and maintaining its efficiency.

Smart Thermostats: Your Summer Savings Superhero

This is where smart thermostats become your summer savings superhero. These intelligent devices do more than just let you set a temperature. They learn your habits, can be controlled remotely via your phone, and can even sense when you’re away, automatically adjusting settings to save energy.

• Program for Savings

  Set higher temperatures when you’re out or asleep and slightly lower them during active hours. Even a few degrees difference can impact consumption.

• Utilize “Away” Modes

  Many smart thermostats have geofencing capabilities, automatically switching to an energy-saving mode when you leave and resuming comfort settings as you approach home.

• Analyze Usage Data

  Leverage the insights provided by your smart thermostat’s app. Understanding your energy patterns can help you make smarter adjustments and identify peak usage times.

To truly maximize your efforts, it’s wise to regularly compare Texas electricity rates. A great fixed-rate plan combined with smart energy habits is a powerful combination.

For over 20 years, ElectricityOne has been a trusted guide for Texas homes and businesses seeking reliable electric service. We understand the Texas energy market intimately, and our power-to-choose platform meticulously connects you with the finest Retail Electric Providers (REPs). We partner only with providers that offer substantial cost savings, transparent disclosure of all costs and fees, and a commitment to your long-term contentment. We help ensure your fixed-rate plan is genuinely competitive, allowing your smart thermostat and HVAC optimizations to deliver maximum impact.

Your Summer HVAC & Smart Thermostat Savings Checklist

• Change Air Filters: Replace dirty air filters monthly, especially during peak cooling season.
• Set a Smart Schedule: Program your smart thermostat to higher temperatures (e.g., 78-80°F) when you’re away or sleeping, and lower it only when necessary.
• Utilize Geofencing: If your thermostat has it, enable geofencing to automatically adjust settings based on your home’s occupancy.
• Seal Leaks: Check windows and doors for drafts; seal them with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent cool air from escaping.
• Consider a Professional Tune-up: An annual HVAC check-up ensures your system runs efficiently and catches minor issues before they become major problems.
• Keep Vents Clear: Ensure furniture or drapes aren’t blocking air vents, restricting airflow.

By taking control of your HVAC system and harnessing the power of a smart thermostat, you’re not just enduring the Texas summer; you’re conquering your energy bill. These actions amplify the benefits of your fixed-rate energy plan, ensuring every degree of cooling is as efficient as possible. ElectricityOne’s 20 years of experience means we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you secure a plan that aligns perfectly with your energy-saving efforts.

Ready to pair these savings tips with a better energy plan? Call 1.844.567.2863 today to speak with our residential energy experts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Energy Savings

Does turning my AC off completely when I leave save more energy?

It often uses more energy to cool your home down from a very high temperature than to maintain a slightly warmer temperature while you’re away. A smart thermostat can help find the optimal balance.

What’s the ideal thermostat setting for summer in Texas?

Most energy experts recommend setting your thermostat to 78°F when you are home and awake. Adjusting it a few degrees higher when you’re away can lead to further savings without sacrificing comfort upon return.

Are smart thermostats difficult to install?

Many smart thermostats are designed for DIY installation, often requiring basic tools and following clear instructions. However, if you’re uncomfortable with electrical work, a professional installation is always an option.