Lowering your electric bills during an Arizona summer (especially in places like Phoenix or Yuma 
) is all about smart cooling, energy-efficient upgrades, and strategic usage. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to keep those bills in check:
How to Lower Your Arizona Summer Electric Bills
1. Use Your AC Strategically
-
Set thermostat to 78°F (or higher) when home, and 85°F when away.
-
Use smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee) to automate temperature control.
-
Close off and seal unused rooms to avoid cooling dead space.
2. Block Out the Sun
-
Use sun-blocking curtains, cellular shades, or thermal blinds.
-
Install window film or solar screens to reduce heat gain by up to 70%.
-
Consider exterior shade structures like awnings or shade sails.
3. Go Solar
-
Solar panels can dramatically cut your long-term electricity costs.
-
Arizona offers state tax credits (up to $1,000) + a 30% federal tax credit.
-
Even solar attic fans or solar tube lights can lower cooling and lighting costs.
4. Use Ceiling Fans & Ventilation
-
Ceiling fans use 90% less energy than AC and make it feel 4°F cooler.
-
Run fans counter-clockwise in summer.
-
Use attic ventilation (ridge vents or fans) to prevent heat buildup.
5. Seal & Insulate
-
Seal leaks around windows, doors, and ducts to prevent cool air from escaping.
-
Insulate attics and walls—older homes especially need this upgrade.
-
Apply weatherstripping to doors and caulking around windows.
6. Time-of-Use (TOU) Energy Plans
-
APS and SRP offer TOU plans where off-peak power is cheaper (usually evenings and early mornings).
-
Do laundry, run the dishwasher, and charge EVs during these off-peak hours.
7. Landscape for Shade
-
Plant desert-friendly shade trees (like Palo Verde or Mesquite) on the south and west sides of your home.
-
Gravel and hardscaping reflect heat—use mulch or native ground cover to help cool things down.
8. Switch to LED Lighting
-
LEDs produce less heat and use 75% less energy than incandescents.
-
Every bit of heat your lights give off makes your AC work harder!
9. Maintain Your HVAC System
-
Change filters monthly in summer.
-
Schedule an annual AC tune-up before peak season.
-
Consider upgrading to a SEER 16+ unit if your system is over 10-15 years old.
10. Unplug or Use Smart Power Strips
-
Electronics and chargers draw power even when off.
-
Use smart power strips to eliminate “phantom load” costs.
Elite Home Daylighting Systems offers tubular skylights and solar attic fan installation services to the entire Phoenix east valley. Service area includes Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe & more! Contact us for a free quote today!
More Articles About Solar Tubes
- Why Go Solar In Arizona?
- How To Remove A Skylight
- Best Skylight Ideas For Your Home
- Roof Window Vs Skylight
- Solar Attic Fan Installation Cost
- 5 Benefits Of Sunlight Through Windows
- How Much Does It Cost To Install A Skylight?
- Sun Tunnel Vs Skylight
- Skylight Dome Replacement Guide
- Skylights Replacement Cost
- Skylights Near Me In East Valley Phoenix
- How Long Do Skylights Last
- Do Solar Attic Fans Work
- How To Clean Skylights In 5 Steps
- Everything You Need To Know About Solar Fans
- How To Install Solar Attic Fan
- Skylights Vs Solar Tubes: Costs, Pros And Cons
- How Much Do Solar Tubes Cost?
- 6 Easy Ways To Lower Your Electric Bill In Arizona
- Solar Attic Fans Pros And Cons
- Tubular Skylights Pros And Cons
