Summer Bills Are Climbing—Here’s How to Stay Ahead
If you live in Lake, Napa, or Mendocino counties, you already know that keeping your home cool in the summer can send your PG&E bill soaring. Many of our customers at Jonas Energy Solutions tell us they dread opening their bill after the first big heat wave hits. But here’s the good news: lowering your summer energy bills doesn’t require expensive equipment upgrades or uncomfortable thermostat settings. With a few smart strategies, regular maintenance, and the right energy programs, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home—without the sticker shock. In this guide, we’ll cover the top 3 ways to lower your PG&E bill this summer—combining expert advice from our HVAC team, the U.S. Department of Energy, and PG&E’s own energy-saving resources.
1. Optimize Your Cooling System for Peak Efficiency
Why Your AC Needs More Than Just a Filter Change
Your air conditioner works harder in the summer than at any other time of year. If it isn’t running at peak efficiency, it can use up to 30% more energy—driving up your bill while providing less comfort. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends regular maintenance to prevent this kind of waste. At Jonas Energy Solutions, we see many systems struggling due to clogged filters, refrigerant issues, or dirty coils—all of which force your AC to run longer for the same result. Key maintenance steps include cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting and sealing ductwork, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning evaporator and condenser coils, and testing system airflow. Schedule your AC maintenance with Jonas Energy to ensure your system runs efficiently all summer long.
Why a Smart Thermostat Saves More Than You Think
Most homes still use old manual thermostats or basic digital models that don’t adjust to daily patterns. A smart or programmable thermostat lets you automatically raise the temperature when you’re out, cool the house before you return, avoid unnecessary cooling overnight, and keep pets comfortable while reducing waste. The DOE reports that setting your thermostat to 78°F when home and increasing it while away can save up to 10% on cooling costs. Many models can now be linked to PG&E’s Time-of-Use rate plans (more on that below).
2. Implement Home Energy-Saving Strategies
Keep the Heat Out: Shading, Insulation & Air Sealing
Even the best air conditioner will struggle if your home lets heat seep in. A few smart changes can make a big difference: close blinds and curtains during peak sun hours (especially west-facing windows), use reflective window films or solar shades to block heat, seal gaps around windows and doors to stop air leaks, and add attic insulation to slow heat transfer through ceilings. Not sure where your home is losing energy? PG&E’s Home Energy Checkup tool offers a free online assessment.
Use Fans to Reduce Cooling Load
Ceiling fans, whole-house fans, and portable units can make rooms feel up to 4°F cooler, letting you raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Run fans counter-clockwise in summer, turn fans off in empty rooms (fans cool people, not spaces), and use whole-house fans at night to flush out hot air (if outdoor air is healthy).
Ventilate When the Air Is Cool
In coastal parts of Mendocino and Napa counties, evening temperatures often drop below indoor temps—even during summer heat waves. On cooler nights or early mornings, open windows strategically for cross-ventilation, use window or whole-house fans to draw in cool air, and close windows and shades by mid-morning to trap cool air.
3. Leverage PG&E Programs & Incentives
Take Advantage of Time-of-Use (TOU) Plans
PG&E offers Time-of-Use plans that reward customers for shifting electricity use to off-peak hours. This is especially useful in summer, when on-peak rates can be 50–70% higher. To save, run dishwashers, laundry, and pool pumps during off-peak times, pre-cool your home in the morning, and use programmable thermostats to adjust cooling schedules automatically.
Enroll in PG&E’s Assistance & Rebate Programs
Depending on your income, family size, or home energy profile, you may qualify for CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy), a 20% discount on energy bills; FERA (Family Electric Rate Assistance), an 18% discount for larger households; and ESA (Energy Savings Assistance), which provides free weatherization and energy upgrades. You can check eligibility and apply through PG&E’s assistance program page.
Use PG&E Energy Tools for Smarter Savings
PG&E also provides free tools to help you monitor energy use: Bill Forecast Alerts to stay ahead of high bills, the Rate Comparison Tool to make sure you’re on the best rate for your needs, and the Home Energy Checkup to find new ways to save. All are available through your PG&E account dashboard.
Why Start Now?
In our experience at Jonas Energy Solutions, summer energy savings are all about early action. The sooner you tune up your HVAC, optimize thermostat settings, address insulation and leaks, and enroll in PG&E savings programs, the more you’ll save—not just in July and August, but throughout the year. Even small changes like better fan use or upgraded window treatments can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings.
Ready to Save on Your Summer Bills?
At Jonas Energy Solutions, we’re here to help you stay comfortable and save money—without compromising on home cooling. Whether you need seasonal AC maintenance, a thermostat upgrade, or expert advice on energy efficiency, we can help you build a plan that fits your home and your budget. Ready to get started? Contact us today and let’s make this summer your lowest PG&E season yet.
