Cut a PG&E cooling bill in Bakersfield
PG&E supplies electricity across Bakersfield, and in July the air conditioner is most of the bill. The two levers are when it runs and how hard it has to work.
Know your peak hours
On PG&E's most common time-of-use plan, E-TOU-C, electricity is priced higher from 4 to 9 p.m. every day and lower at all other times. PG&E says the plan suits customers who can conserve from 4 to 9 p.m. In Bakersfield that window lands right on the hottest part of the evening, when the outdoor unit is still fighting 100 degree air. Check which plan you are on before changing anything.
Pre-cool, then coast
- Cool the house a few degrees lower in early afternoon, then raise the setpoint at 4 p.m. and let the house drift.
- Close west-facing blinds by early afternoon.
- Run the dishwasher and the dryer after 9 p.m.
- A smart thermostat can do the schedule for you.
The US DOE suggests 78°F when you are home and need cooling, and higher when you are away.
Make the system work less
- Replace a dusty filter. Valley dust loads one quickly.
- Rinse the outdoor coil and keep it clear of plants.
- Have leaky attic ducts sealed. Duct repair.
- If the system is old and the bills keep climbing, price a high-efficiency replacement or a heat pump. Repair or replace.
PG&E help programs
- CARE. Households that meet income guidelines can get a monthly discount of 35% or more on electricity and 20% or more on gas, PG&E says.
- FERA. An 18% discount on the monthly bill for households just above the CARE limits.
- Medical Baseline. For customers with qualifying medical conditions or devices, including some who need cooling for a condition. PG&E describes it as an extra monthly allotment of roughly 500 kWh at the lowest per-kWh rate on your plan.
Apply through PG&E. Program rules and amounts can change; check pge.com before you count on one.
Questions Bakersfield homeowners ask
What are PG&E peak hours?
On PG&E's E-TOU-C time-of-use plan, peak pricing runs from 4 to 9 p.m. every day. Other plans differ, so check yours on your bill or pge.com.
What should I set my thermostat to in summer?
The US Department of Energy suggests 78°F when you are home, and higher when you are away. Pre-cooling before 4 p.m. can help on a time-of-use plan.
Does PG&E have help for people who can't afford their bill?
Yes. CARE gives income-qualified households a discount of 35% or more on electricity, FERA gives 18%, and Medical Baseline adds lower-priced energy for qualifying medical needs.