5 real tips to lower your Texas electricity bill

Before we start

In Texas, air conditioning eats ~50% of your bill in July and August. If you want to lower your bill, that's where the fight is — not changing light bulbs.

1. Bump the thermostat 2°F

From 72°F to 74°F sounds minor, but every degree saves ~3% on cooling energy. On a $200 bill that's $12/month. Multiply by 4 summer months: $48.

Pro tip: with a programmed Nest or Ecobee you barely notice the difference.

2. Seal air leaks

25-40% of cold air escapes through:

• Poorly-sealed windows (use $5 weather stripping)
• Exterior doors (install a base door sweep)
• Electrical outlets on exterior walls ($1 foam gaskets)

Total investment: ~$30. Typical savings: $20-40/month in summer.

3. Change the A/C filter every 2 months

A clogged filter forces the compressor to work 15-20% harder. Standard filters cost $5-15. 2-minute swap. Typical savings: $15/month in peak summer.

4. Move laundry & dryer to nighttime

Most Texas TDUs (CenterPoint, Oncor) charge higher rates during the 3-7pm "peak". Washing and drying at 9pm reduces transmission charges. Some REPs offer "free nights" plans — Velcor doesn't, because we'd rather give you a flat fixed rate without gimmicks.

5. Read your meter twice a month

In your Velcor portal you can see daily usage. If you spot an unexplained jump in a month, something broke in your house (most commonly: old fridge, water heater, pool pump). Catching it early saves $50-150/month.

What does NOT work

• ❌ Unplugging stand-by electronics (sounds good; saves $1-3/month in a typical home).
• ❌ Replacing every bulb with LEDs at once (LEDs already use little; slow ROI).
• ❌ Planting shade trees (admirable, but takes 5+ years).

Focus your energy where the money is: the A/C.