Winter Utility Savings: Lower Your Arizona Energy Bills
B.R. Welch
December 2, 2024
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Managing Winter Energy Costs
While Arizona winters are famously mild, evening temperatures in Phoenix can drop into the 40s, and northern Arizona sees genuine cold. Smart energy management keeps homes comfortable without breaking the bank.
SRP Time-of-Use Strategies
Salt River Project customers can save with usage timing:
- Off-peak hours (typically 9PM-5AM) offer lowest rates
- Run dishwashers and laundry during off-peak times
- Pre-heat or pre-cool during cheaper rate periods
- SRP M-Power prepaid program for usage tracking
APS Energy Programs
Arizona Public Service offers assistance:
- Equal Payment Plan for predictable bills
- Low-income assistance programs
- Energy audit services
- Rebates for efficient appliances
Heating Efficiency Tips
Reduce heating costs:
- Set thermostats to 68°F when home, lower when away
- Use ceiling fans in reverse (clockwise) to push warm air down
- Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping
- Close blinds at night, open south-facing during day
Water Heater Savings
Hot water accounts for significant energy use:
- Set temperature to 120°F (safe and efficient)
- Insulate older water heaters with blanket kits
- Fix leaking faucets promptly
- Consider tankless water heaters for long-term savings
Utility Assistance Programs
Arizona offers help for those who qualify:
- LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance)
- Utility company medical necessity programs
- Senior citizen rate discounts
- Community action agency assistance
Solar Considerations
Arizona's sunshine powers savings:
- Federal tax credits for solar installation
- Net metering programs with utilities
- Solar lease and PPA options without upfront costs
- Community solar programs for renters
Winter Gas Savings
For homes with natural gas:
- Service furnace annually for efficiency
- Replace air filters monthly during heavy use
- Consider programmable thermostats
- Zone heating with space heaters for specific rooms
Smart Home Investments
Technology that pays for itself:
- Smart thermostats learn your schedule
- LED bulbs use fraction of traditional bulb energy
- Smart power strips eliminate phantom loads
- Energy monitoring devices identify waste