3 Ways Older Adults Can Save Money on Electricity This Summer

There is growing concern about the rising cost of electricity, especially during the summer months.

According to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, the average U.S. household is expected to spend about $792 on electricity between June and September, up 10.5% from the same period last year, when the average was $717.

For many lower-income older adults, rising electricity costs can be especially difficult during the summer.

Older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related health problems, making air conditioning an important part of staying safe.

Here are three ways older adults and caregivers can help reduce electricity costs this summer.

1. Choose Energy-Efficient Products When Possible

One way to lower electricity costs over time is to check whether your lighting, air conditioner, refrigerator, TV, and other electronics are ENERGY STAR certified.

Products with the ENERGY STAR label are independently certified to meet strict energy-efficiency standards.

For example:

ENERGY STAR certified refrigerators are at least 15% more efficient than the minimum federal efficiency standard.

ENERGY STAR certified TVs use 3 watts or less when switched off, compared to standard TVs, which use almost 6 watts on average.

ENERGY STAR certified room air conditioners use about 9% less energy than standard models and, on average, cost less than $70 per year to run.

You can also replace incandescent light bulbs with ENERGY STAR certified LED bulbs, which use up to 90% less energy and last up to 15 times longer than standard bulbs.

You can search for ENERGY STAR certified products here:https://www.energystar.gov/productfinder?s=mega

Another helpful label to look for is WaterSense.

WaterSense is a voluntary program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It helps people find water-efficient products that can save water and electricity costs.

WaterSense products can also help save electricity because your water heater doesn't have to work as hard.

For example, replacing showerheads with WaterSense labeled models can reduce the average family’s water and electricity costs by about $70 per year.

You can look for WaterSense products here: https://lookforwatersense.epa.gov/products/

2. Use Your Current Appliances More Efficiently

Unplug electronics when they aren't being used. Many devices still use electricity even when they are turned off or sitting idle.

When doing laundry, use cold water when possible. This helps reduce the amount of electricity needed to heat the water. According to Consumer Reports, using cold-water detergent and setting your machine to 60 degrees Fahrenheit instead of 75 degrees Fahrenheit can save at least $60 annually in utilities.

3. Naturally Cool Your Home

You may be able to reduce cooling costs by helping your home stay cooler naturally.

One simple method highlighted by Country Living is called the “caveman method.” The idea is to close blinds or curtains before direct sunlight reaches that side of the home, often by 9 a.m. This helps trap cooler indoor air and blocks heat from coming inside.

In the evening, when the temperature drops, you can open windows on opposite sides of the home to create cross-ventilation. This helps push hot air out and bring cooler evening air in.

Ceiling fans can also help. In the summer, ceiling fans should usually spin counterclockwise. This creates a wind-chill effect that can make you feel cooler.

Need Help Paying Your Electricity Bill?

If you or your loved one needs help paying utility bills, there may be national, state, and local programs available.

Weatherization Assistance Program

The Weatherization Assistance Program helps income-qualified households make their homes more energy efficient. The program may include an assessment of the home and improvements that can help lower energy costs.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, households that receive weatherization services save an average of $372 or more every year.

You can learn more and check how to apply here:https://www.energy.gov/cmei/scep/wap/how-apply-weatherization-assistance

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP

LIHEAP is a federal program that can help eligible households pay heating and cooling bills, prevent shutoffs, and reconnect service.

You can search for your local LIHEAP office here:https://liheapch.acf.gov/search-tool/

California Programs

In California, the California Alternate Rates for Energy, CARE, program provides a 30% to 35% discount on electric bills for eligible low-income households.

California also has the Family Electric Rate Assistance Program, FERA, for families whose income exceeds CARE limits. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills.

Other Ways to Find Help

You can also call 211, visit 211.org, or contact the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find programs in your area.

211 utility assistance page:https://www.211.org/get-help/utilities-expenses

You can also use AI to help search for resources. Go to ChatGPT and ask:

“Look up resources on how to save on my electricity bill in [your state].” You don't need to sign up and never give your personal information.

Local nonprofits, community action agencies, and religious organizations may also offer emergency help with utility bills.

As the only nonprofit agency in California offering home care services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate affordable in-home care.  

Our dedicated care professional can help you think through your options and explain what types of support may be appropriate based on your specific needs.

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