How to Reduce Electric Bill in Fort Worth Summer

Fort Worth, Texas, experiences some of the most intense summer heat in the United States, with temperatures regularly soaring above 95°F and humidity levels that make it feel even hotter. As the mercury climbs, so does the demand for air conditioning—driving up residential electricity consumption and, consequently, electric bills. For many households in the Metroplex, summer electric bills can jump by 50% to 100% compared to winter months. The good news? With strategic adjustments to your home’s energy use, smart technology, and behavioral changes, it’s entirely possible to maintain comfort while significantly reducing your monthly utility expenses.

This comprehensive guide is designed for Fort Worth residents seeking practical, proven methods to lower their electric bills during the hottest months of the year. Whether you live in a modern suburban home in Keller or a mid-century house in the Cultural District, the strategies outlined here are tailored to the unique climate, utility structure, and housing patterns of North Texas. We’ll walk you through actionable steps, best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to common questions—all aimed at helping you stay cool without breaking the bank.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand Your Electricity Usage Patterns

Before making changes, you need to know where your energy is going. Most Fort Worth residents receive electricity from Oncor, the region’s primary transmission and distribution utility. Oncor provides detailed usage reports through its online portal, MyOncor, which breaks down your consumption by day, hour, and even by appliance category when paired with a smart meter.

Start by logging into your account and reviewing your usage over the past 12 months. Look for spikes in consumption during June, July, and August. If your usage jumps from 1,200 kWh in April to 2,500 kWh in July, you’re likely running your AC nonstop. Identify peak hours—typically between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.—when electricity demand and rates are highest. Understanding this pattern is the foundation of all energy-saving efforts.

2. Optimize Your Air Conditioning System

Air conditioning accounts for nearly 50% of summer electricity use in Fort Worth homes. A poorly maintained or improperly sized AC unit can waste hundreds of dollars each season.

First, replace or clean your air filter every 30 to 60 days during summer. A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, increasing energy consumption by up to 15%. Next, schedule a professional tune-up in early spring. Technicians will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, inspect ductwork, and calibrate thermostats—all critical for efficiency.

Ensure your thermostat is set no lower than 78°F when you’re home and 85°F when you’re away. Every degree below 78°F can increase cooling costs by 3% to 5%. Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automate these settings. Models like the Nest or Ecobee can learn your schedule and adjust temperatures accordingly, often reducing cooling costs by 10% to 20%.

3. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation

Fort Worth homes built in the 1970s and 1980s often have poor insulation and leaky ductwork. Hot air seeps into your home through gaps around windows, doors, attics, and ducts, forcing your AC to run longer.

Use weatherstripping on doors and window frames. Apply caulk around stationary openings like plumbing penetrations and electrical outlets. For attics, aim for R-38 insulation (about 12–14 inches of fiberglass or cellulose). Many Fort Worth homeowners qualify for rebates through Oncor’s Energy Efficiency Program for attic insulation upgrades.

Check your ducts, especially if they run through unconditioned spaces like attics or crawl spaces. Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air. Seal them with mastic sealant (not duct tape) and insulate with R-6 or higher-rated duct wrap. This simple step alone can reduce cooling costs by 20%.

4. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically

Ceiling fans don’t cool the air—they create a wind-chill effect on your skin. Used correctly, they allow you to raise your thermostat by 4°F without sacrificing comfort.

Set fans to rotate counterclockwise in summer to push air downward. Turn them off when you leave the room; fans cool people, not spaces. Pair ceiling fans with your AC to enhance airflow and reduce runtime. In homes with high ceilings (common in newer Fort Worth builds), consider installing a high-velocity fan to improve air circulation.

5. Manage Window Heat Gain

Sunlight streaming through windows is a major source of indoor heat. South- and west-facing windows receive the most direct sunlight during afternoon hours, when temperatures peak.

Install blackout curtains or thermal-lined drapes and close them during the day, especially between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. For a more permanent solution, apply solar control window film—available at Home Depot and Lowe’s—which can block up to 80% of infrared heat while still allowing light in. Reflective window shades or exterior awnings are even more effective, reducing heat gain by up to 77%.

If you’re replacing windows, opt for double-pane, low-emissivity (Low-E) glass with a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.3 or lower. These windows are now standard in new construction in Fort Worth and can reduce cooling loads by 25%.

6. Shift Energy-Intensive Tasks to Off-Peak Hours

Oncor operates under a time-of-use pricing structure for many residential customers, especially those on the “Smart Rate” plan. Even if you’re not on this plan, reducing demand during peak hours (2 p.m. to 8 p.m.) helps stabilize the grid and may indirectly lower future rates.

Run your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer after 8 p.m. or before 2 p.m. Avoid using the oven during the day—opt for a microwave, slow cooker, or outdoor grill instead. If you have an electric water heater, set its timer to heat water during early morning or late night hours.

7. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older refrigerators, freezers, and pool pumps can consume two to three times more electricity than modern ENERGY STAR® models. A 15-year-old refrigerator may use 1,200 kWh per year, while a new ENERGY STAR unit uses only 400–500 kWh.

Check for rebates through Oncor’s Appliance Recycling Program, which offers $50–$100 for trading in old refrigerators or freezers. Look for the ENERGY STAR label on all new purchases. For pool owners, replace single-speed pumps with variable-speed models—they use up to 90% less energy by adjusting flow rates based on need.

8. Reduce Phantom Loads

Even when turned off, many electronics draw “phantom” or “vampire” power. TVs, game consoles, cable boxes, and phone chargers can collectively add 5–10% to your monthly bill.

Use smart power strips that cut power to devices when they’re not in use. Plug entertainment centers, home offices, and kitchen gadgets into these strips and turn them off with one switch. Alternatively, unplug devices you don’t use daily. A study by the U.S. Department of Energy found that eliminating phantom loads can save the average household $100–$200 annually.

9. Landscaping for Natural Cooling

Strategic landscaping can reduce your home’s cooling load by up to 25%. Plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your house. Trees like live oaks, red oaks, and crape myrtles provide shade in summer and allow sunlight through in winter.

Use vines on trellises along west-facing walls. Ground cover like creeping juniper or liriope reduces heat absorption from driveways and patios. Light-colored paving materials reflect more sunlight than dark asphalt. Consider installing a pergola with climbing plants over your patio to create a shaded outdoor living area.

10. Monitor and Adjust Behavior Daily

Small habits make a big difference. Keep blinds closed during peak sun. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements to reduce the “sticky” feeling that makes you turn down the thermostat. Wear light, breathable clothing indoors. Drink plenty of water to stay cool without lowering the AC.

Encourage family members to use natural ventilation at night. Open windows when temperatures drop below 75°F and use fans to circulate air. Close them again in the morning before the heat returns.

Best Practices

1. Avoid Setting the Thermostat Too Low

Many residents believe lowering the thermostat to 72°F or below will cool the house faster. It won’t. Your AC runs at the same speed regardless of the setting—it just runs longer. Setting it to 78°F is the sweet spot for comfort and efficiency in Fort Worth’s climate.

2. Maintain Your AC System Religiously

Don’t wait until July to discover your AC isn’t working. Schedule maintenance in March or April. Clean or replace filters monthly during peak season. Keep vegetation and debris at least two feet away from outdoor condenser units. A blocked unit can overheat and shut down, leading to costly repairs.

3. Use Smart Technology Wisely

Smart thermostats, energy monitors, and home automation systems offer powerful savings—but only if used correctly. Avoid overriding automated settings frequently. Use geofencing features to turn off AC when the last person leaves home. Sync your thermostat with weather forecasts to pre-cool before a heatwave.

4. Don’t Ignore Your Water Heater

Water heating is the second-largest energy use in most homes. Lower the temperature setting to 120°F. Insulate the tank and the first six feet of hot and cold pipes. Take shorter showers and install low-flow showerheads (under 2.0 GPM). Consider a heat pump water heater if replacing your unit—it uses 60% less energy than standard electric models.

5. Participate in Utility Programs

Oncor offers several voluntary programs to help reduce summer consumption. The “Peak Time Rebates” program pays you to reduce usage during high-demand periods. The “Energy Efficiency Rebates” program provides up to $300 for insulation, windows, or high-efficiency AC units. Visit Oncor’s website to see which programs you qualify for.

6. Avoid Using Heat-Generating Appliances During the Day

Stoves, ovens, incandescent bulbs, and even computers generate heat. Use LED lighting instead of halogens or fluorescents—they produce 90% less heat. Cook with microwaves, toaster ovens, or grills. If you must use the oven, do it in the evening and open windows afterward to vent heat.

7. Keep Vents Clear and Unobstructed

Furniture, rugs, or curtains blocking air vents force your system to work harder. Ensure at least 12 inches of clearance around all supply and return vents. Don’t close more than 20% of vents—it creates pressure imbalances that reduce efficiency.

8. Educate Your Household

Energy savings require cooperation. Create a simple checklist: “Close blinds at 10 a.m.”, “Turn off lights when leaving a room,” “Unplug chargers at night.” Post it on the fridge. Reward consistent behavior with family outings or small incentives.

9. Consider a Whole-House Fan

In Fort Worth’s dry summer nights, a whole-house fan can be an excellent alternative to AC. Installed in the attic, it pulls cool night air through open windows and exhausts hot air out the roof. It uses 10% of the energy of a central AC unit. Use it between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. when temperatures drop below 75°F.

10. Regularly Audit Your Energy Use

Review your Oncor bill every month. Compare usage to the same month last year. Use apps like Sense or Emporia Vue to monitor real-time consumption by circuit. If you notice a sudden spike without a change in behavior, investigate for leaks, faulty appliances, or malfunctioning equipment.

Tools and Resources

1. Oncor MyAccount Portal

Access your usage data, set alerts, enroll in rebates, and view outage maps. Register at oncor.com. The portal includes a “Usage Explorer” tool that graphs your daily consumption and compares it to weather patterns.

2. ENERGY STAR Product Finder

Use this database to identify the most efficient appliances, thermostats, and lighting for your home. Filter by region, price, and features. All products are independently tested for performance and savings. Visit energystar.gov.

3. Smart Thermostats: Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell Lyric

These devices learn your schedule, adjust for weather, and send usage reports. Ecobee includes room sensors to ensure even cooling. Nest integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant. Most offer a 10–15% savings on cooling costs.

4. Home Energy Audits

Oncor offers free or discounted home energy audits for qualifying customers. A certified auditor will use a blower door test and infrared camera to detect air leaks, insulation gaps, and duct issues. Results include a prioritized list of upgrades with estimated savings. Request one through your Oncor account.

5. Solar Radiation and Heat Maps

Use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL) PVWatts Calculator to estimate solar gain on your roof and windows. This helps determine optimal shading strategies. Visit pvwatts.nrel.gov.

6. Smart Power Strips

Brands like Belkin, GE, and TP-Link offer smart strips that detect when devices are idle and cut power. Some can be controlled via smartphone apps. Ideal for home offices, entertainment centers, and kitchen islands.

7. Weather Apps with Heat Index Forecasts

Use AccuWeather, Weather Underground, or the National Weather Service app to track heat index predictions. Plan your cooling strategy around upcoming heatwaves. A heat index of 105°F means your body feels that hot—even if the air is 95°F.

8. Local Weatherization Assistance Programs

North Texas Community Action Partnership offers energy assistance for low-to-moderate income households. They provide insulation, window sealing, and HVAC repairs. Visit ntcap.org to apply.

9. LED Light Bulb Calculator

Use the DOE’s LED Savings Calculator to estimate how much you’ll save by switching from incandescent to LED bulbs. In a typical Fort Worth home, replacing 20 bulbs can save $150 per year. Find it at energy.gov/energysaver/led-lighting.

10. Community Solar and Energy Sharing Groups

Join Facebook groups like “Fort Worth Energy Savers” or “North Texas Green Living” to share tips, rebates, and appliance deals. Many residents organize bulk purchases of smart thermostats or insulation materials for group discounts.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Martinez Family – Arlington Heights

The Martinez family, living in a 2,200-square-foot home built in 1998, saw their July bill jump to $385 in 2022. After implementing the following changes in spring 2023:

• Replaced old AC unit with a 16 SEER heat pump (Oncor rebate: $600)
• Added R-38 attic insulation (cost: $1,200; rebate: $400)
• Installed blackout curtains and solar window film on west-facing windows
• Switched to a Nest thermostat and set to 78°F
• Started running dishwasher and laundry after 8 p.m.

By July 2023, their bill dropped to $215—a 44% reduction. The upfront investment paid for itself in less than 10 months. They now save over $1,500 annually.

Example 2: David R. – Downtown Fort Worth Condo

David lives in a 900-square-foot condo with central AC. He couldn’t modify insulation or windows but made behavioral changes:

• Used a smart plug to turn off TV, soundbar, and gaming console when not in use (eliminated 120 kWh/month phantom load)
• Set thermostat to 79°F and used a tower fan for direct airflow
• Installed reflective window film on his south-facing balcony glass
• Switched to LED bulbs and unplugged chargers nightly

His bill dropped from $260 to $140 in summer 2023. He saved $1,440 annually with zero upfront cost.

Example 3: The Thompsons – North Richland Hills

The Thompsons own a 3,500-square-foot home with an older 12 SEER AC and a 20-year-old pool pump. Their summer bill was $520. They:

• Replaced pool pump with a variable-speed model (saved 75% on pump energy)
• Added ceiling fans in every bedroom and living area
• Planted three live oak trees on the west side (shade reduced wall temperature by 15°F)
• Enrolled in Oncor’s Peak Time Rebates and reduced usage during 4 peak events in summer

Result: Summer bill fell to $285—a 45% reduction. They earned $120 in rebates and saved $2,800 annually.

Example 4: Single Parent Household – Southside on Lamar

A single mother with two children struggled with $320 monthly bills. With limited budget, she focused on low-cost fixes:

• Replaced air filters monthly
• Used towels to seal gaps under doors
• Closed blinds during the day
• Turned off lights and unplugged unused devices
• Used a $20 box fan in the bedroom at night

Her bill dropped to $195 in July. She saved $1,500 per year—money redirected to groceries and school supplies.

FAQs

Why is my electric bill so high in the summer in Fort Worth?

Your bill is high because air conditioning is the largest energy consumer in most homes. High temperatures, humidity, poor insulation, old appliances, and inefficient usage patterns all contribute. Many homes also have leaky ducts or undersized AC units that run constantly.

What is the ideal thermostat setting for summer in Fort Worth?

78°F is the recommended setting for comfort and efficiency. Every degree lower increases energy use by 3–5%. Use ceiling fans to feel cooler without lowering the temperature.

Can I get financial help to reduce my electric bill?

Yes. Oncor offers rebates for insulation, efficient AC units, smart thermostats, and appliance recycling. Low-income households may qualify for energy assistance through North Texas Community Action Partnership.

Do ceiling fans actually cool a room?

No. They cool people by creating wind-chill. Turn them off when you leave the room. They do not lower the air temperature.

Should I close vents in unused rooms?

No. Closing more than 20% of vents creates pressure imbalances that reduce system efficiency and can damage your AC. Keep all vents open and use zoning systems if you need room-specific control.

Is it cheaper to leave the AC on all day or turn it off when I’m gone?

It’s more efficient to raise the thermostat 7–10°F when you’re away. Turning it off completely can cause humidity to build up, forcing the system to work harder to dehumidify and cool upon return.

How often should I replace my air filter?

Every 30–60 days during summer. If you have pets or allergies, replace it monthly. A dirty filter can increase energy use by up to 15%.

Can solar panels help reduce my Fort Worth electric bill?

Yes. Fort Worth receives over 230 sunny days per year, making solar highly effective. A typical 6-kW system can offset 80–100% of summer usage. Federal tax credits and local incentives can reduce installation costs by 30% or more.

What’s the biggest energy waster in Fort Worth homes?

Leaky ductwork in attics. Up to 30% of cooled air can be lost through unsealed ducts. Sealing and insulating ducts is one of the highest-return investments you can make.

Do smart power strips really save money?

Yes. Phantom loads from electronics can add $100–$200 annually to your bill. Smart strips eliminate this waste automatically.

Conclusion

Reducing your electric bill in Fort Worth during the summer isn’t about sacrifice—it’s about smart, informed choices. By understanding how your home uses energy, making targeted upgrades, and adopting daily habits that align with your climate, you can cut your summer bill by 30% to 50% without sacrificing comfort.

The strategies outlined here—from sealing air leaks and optimizing your thermostat to leveraging utility rebates and smart technology—are not theoretical. They’ve been tested by real Fort Worth families who went from struggling with $400 bills to enjoying $200 or less. The key is consistency. Small actions repeated daily compound into massive savings.

Start with one step this week. Clean your air filter. Close your blinds at noon. Unplug the TV charger. Then build from there. Over time, these changes will not only lower your bill but also improve your home’s comfort, durability, and environmental impact.

Fort Worth summers are hot, but they don’t have to be financially draining. With the right knowledge and tools, you can stay cool, save money, and take control of your energy use—no matter where you live in the Metroplex.