Thermostat & temperature control
- Set your thermostat as high as is safely comfortable in summer, and as low as is safely comfortable in winter — every degree closer to the outdoor temperature saves real money.
- A programmable or smart thermostat can save significantly on heating and cooling costs annually by automatically backing off when you're away or asleep.
- Use ceiling and room fans to help cool rooms efficiently, and turn them off when you leave — fans cool people, not empty rooms.
- Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise in winter and counterclockwise in summer to optimize airflow.
Heating, cooling & insulation
- Clean or replace your HVAC air filter regularly — a clogged filter makes your system work harder for the same result.
- Schedule regular HVAC maintenance beyond just filter changes.
- Seal or install weather stripping on doors, windows, ductwork, and pipes.
- Properly insulate walls, attics, and water heaters to reduce heat loss.
- Close drapes or shades on extremely hot or cold days to help maintain indoor temperature.
- Close the fireplace damper when it's not in use.
- Shade trees or exterior shading can meaningfully reduce cooling needs in summer.
Appliance use & efficiency
- Run large appliances — washing machines, dryers, dishwashers — during off-peak hours when possible.
- Only run large appliances when they're full.
- Wash clothes in cold water to save energy.
- Air-dry clothes and dishes when you can.
- When shopping for appliances, choose energy-efficient ENERGY STAR® models.
- Smart power strips can eliminate "phantom load" — the energy electronics quietly draw even when they're off.
Lighting & electronics
- Turn off lights and electronics when they're not in use.
- Unplug electronics when you're away for extended periods.
- Use energy-efficient LED bulbs instead of incandescent or CFL bulbs.
Water heating
- Set your water heater to a safe, comfortable temperature — lower settings mean greater savings.
- Insulate hot water pipes and your water heater itself to minimize heat loss.
None of this matters if you're on the wrong plan
See your real options first — then these habits stretch even further.
Cooking & daily habits
- Use a microwave, toaster oven, or air fryer instead of a full oven for small meals.
- Monitor your energy use with a smart meter or app for real-time feedback — you can't manage what you can't see.
Energy audits & programs
- Consider a home or business energy audit to find the highest-impact fixes for your specific house.
- Ask your electric provider whether they offer energy audit programs.
- Ask your electric provider about energy efficiency programs or rebates — many providers offer these and don't advertise them loudly.
Frequently asked questions
What's the easiest way to lower my Texas electric bill?
Thermostat settings tend to have the biggest single impact — setting it as high as comfortably possible in summer and as low as comfortably possible in winter, since every degree closer to the outdoor temperature saves real money. A programmable or smart thermostat automates that.
Does my electricity plan matter more than my usage habits?
Usage habits genuinely help, but they can't overcome a bad plan — someone with great habits on an expensive plan will still pay more than someone with average habits on the right plan. Both matter, but checking the plan comes first.
Do Texas electric providers offer energy efficiency rebates?
Many do, including free or low-cost energy audits and rebates on efficient appliances, but they often don't advertise these loudly. It's worth asking your provider directly rather than assuming none exist.
Source: Public Utility Commission of Texas, Ways to Save — Electricity. Learn more directly from the PUCT at puc.texas.gov.