California Heat Wave: How to save money on your energy bill

California Heat Wave: How to Save Money on Your Energy Bill

We are all doing our best to escape the summer heat in Sacramento, but triple digits will soon be headed our way again. If you're lucky enough to have air conditioning, you're probably putting it to work quite a bit. However, as you might have noticed from your latest bill, it can get quite expensive.

ABC 10’s Candace Red reports live from Sacramento with some tips on how to save a few bucks on your energy bill. Here's what Candace found out:

Keeping Costs Down

Good morning, everyone. This is a topic we've been addressing all summer long because it is hot! If you have AC, you know how pricey it can get to run it continuously through the summer. Although it's a bit chilly right now, temperatures will soar later today.

We spoke with SMUD and PG&E for tips on saving money on your energy bill. One major recommendation is to set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. For every two degrees you turn up your thermostat, you can save about 5 to 10% on cooling costs.

Both SMUD and PG&E also suggest using fans, which should be a no-brainer, and closing blinds on windows to keep out direct sunlight. Consider barbecuing outside or using small cooking appliances like a crock pot or microwave instead of your stove or oven to keep your house cool.

Real-Life Experiences

Residents in West Sacramento have been doing their best to stay cool this summer, but some still face hefty bills. One resident shared that their last electric bill was $ 650 for a 2400 sq. ft. home with a 3-ton AC unit. Despite installing fans and running the AC daily, costs remain high.

Assistance Programs

There are options to ease the burden. PG&E offers an Energy Savings Assistance Program to help low-income families with their bills, providing free appliance upgrades and home repairs. SMUD has an Energy Assistance Program Rate that offers monthly discounts to qualified customers. Both companies also offer rebates on certain products, like smart thermostats, which can help keep costs down.

Candace Red from ABC 10 Sacramento.

Keywords

• Sacramento
• Summer heat
• Triple digits
• Air conditioning
• Energy bill
• SMUD
• PG&E
• Thermostat settings
• Cooling costs
• Fans
• Blinds
• Barbecuing
• Cooking appliances
• Energy assistance programs
• Rebates
• Smart thermostats
• Low-income families
• Appliance upgrades
• Home repairs

FAQ

Q: What temperature should I set my thermostat to save on cooling costs?
A: Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. For every two degrees you increase, you can save about 5 to 10% on cooling costs.

Q: What are some other ways to keep my house cool without using the AC?
A: Use fans, close blinds on windows, consider barbecuing outside, or use small cooking appliances like a crock pot or microwave instead of the stove or oven.

Q: What assistance programs are available for high energy bills?
A: PG&E offers an Energy Savings Assistance Program, and SMUD has an Energy Assistance Program Rate. Both programs provide financial aid and discounts to qualifying customers.

Q: Are there any rebates available for energy-saving products?
A: Yes, both SMUD and PG&E offer rebates on certain products, such as smart thermostats. These can help you get some of your money back and reduce energy costs.