Discover easy ways to reduce your electric bill, from upgrading lightbulbs and adjusting your thermostat to applying for energy assistance programs.
Arizona’s rising cost of living is stretching household budgets thin. High electricity bills are part of the problem—especially during the summer months when extreme heat forces homeowners to run their air conditioners more often.
And with a proposed 14 percent rate increase by Arizona Public Service (APS)—the state’s largest electricity provider—currently under review, electricity prices are expected to increase further.
In major cities like Phoenix, residents are hit even harder, with an average cost of living higher than in many other parts of the state. So, if you’re living in Phoenix and looking for ways to save money on utilities, you’re probably not alone.
We spoke to two experts who shared their top tips for Phoenix renters trying to reduce their electricity costs. Keep reading to discover how you can save.
What’s the average electricity bill in Phoenix?
The average cost of electricity in Arizona is 15.23 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is below the national average of 18.44 cents per kWh, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). But since Arizonans tend to consume more electricity than people in many other U.S. states, their monthly utility bills are often more expensive.
In Phoenix specifically, the average household uses about 1,549 kWh of electricity each month, which means the average electric bill is about $236 per month.
Energy saving tips for Phoenix renters
You don’t have to completely forgo air conditioning to reduce your electricity bill in Phoenix (though doing so would result in serious savings). Here are 12 moves you can make to save money on energy costs as a renter in Phoenix.
1. Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible
While you may be tempted to crank your thermostat down to 60 degrees Fahrenheit when you get home after work or an afternoon in the sun, experts advise against this if cost savings is a top priority.
Instead, Marcus Dillion, an HVAC expert with Utah Furnace Repair, recommends keeping your thermostat at the highest comfortable setting and using ceiling or portable fans to improve comfort.
Tomasz Trzyna, owner of New Comfort Heating and Cooling, adds that setting the thermostat extremely low when you come home won’t cool your apartment faster—it’ll just keep your AC running longer.
2. Replace or clean your AC filter regularly
Since a dirty AC filter can restrict airflow and make your system work harder, you should check it regularly and replace or clean it as needed, if your lease allows. In a Phoenix apartment, Trzyna told us he recommends changing the filter every one to three months.
3. Keep supply and return vents clear
Reducing your energy costs might be as simple as rearranging your apartment. Do a quick walk-through and make sure your furniture, rugs, curtains, and other belongings aren’t blocking any AC vents or returns. Restricted airflow can make it harder for your system to circulate cool air efficiently, causing it to run longer and potentially use more electricity.
4. Report an inefficient AC rather than compensating with the thermostat
If your AC isn’t properly cooling your apartment, has weak airflow, or makes unusual noises, contact property management rather than just lowering your thermostat. Trzyna suggests asking maintenance to check for issues like dirty coils, low refrigerant levels, and improper thermostat calibration.
5. Block Phoenix’s intense daytime heat
Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest, sunniest part of the day to reduce indoor heat gain. If your lease allows removable weatherstripping, use it around drafty doors and windows to help prevent outdoor heat from entering your apartment.
You may also want to consider swapping your current window coverings for energy-efficient versions if permitted by your landlord. Thermal curtains or blinds, insulated cellular shades, and window films can help control the temperature in your apartment.
6. Avoid adding heat during the hottest hours
When practical, run your oven, dishwasher, dryer, and other heat-producing appliances during cooler parts of the day. This timing hack can help reduce the additional cooling needed to counter the heat these appliances generate.
7. Switch to a time-of-use energy plan
Speaking of timing, many Arizona utility companies offer time-of-use plans that charge varying rates based on the time of day. For example, APS charges higher on-peak pricing from 4 to 7 p.m. on weekdays, so if you want to save money, reduce your energy use during this timeframe.
Note: In Arizona, you can’t choose your utility provider because of the state’s regulated energy market, but you should be able to choose your plan from your assigned provider.
8. Make laundry and dishwashing more efficient
Wash your clothes in cold water and wait for full loads before running the washing machine or dishwasher. Running one full load instead of several partially full loads will reduce the time you spend using these appliances.
9. Cut “standby” electricity use
Unplug electronics and small appliances, like your coffee maker or microwave, that continue to draw electricity when they’re not in use, or connect several devices to a power strip you can switch off at once.
10. Switch to LEDs
You can usually swap inefficient light bulbs for LEDs without making a permanent alteration and keep the original bulbs to reinstall before moving out if necessary.
11. Ask about a smart thermostat or other efficiency upgrades
If your landlord allows or provides one, a smart thermostat can help prevent your AC from running unnecessarily while you’re away.
“Scheduling, room sensors, and tighter temperature control can reduce waste without making the place uncomfortable.” Trzyna told us.
For renters facing persistently high cooling costs, it’s worth asking your landlord about upgrades such as ductless mini-splits, heat pumps, better weather sealing, or more efficient cooling equipment.
“Next-generation heat pumps … handle both cooling and dehumidification while using less power than standard ACs in extreme heat. Landlords often approve [upgrades] when shown the long-term efficiency gains for the property,” Trzyna said.
12. Take advantage of energy assistance programs
The City of Phoenix offers several programs, rebates, and incentives designed to help residents save money on utilities. Here are a few worth considering:
- Crisis Bill Assistance: If you’ve recently lost your job, you may qualify for a reduced energy rate through this program.
- Energy Support Program: This program offers qualified customers a 25% or 60% discount on their monthly energy bill. Eligibility is determined based on your household income and family size.
- SRP Income-Qualified Discount: Phoenix residents with limited income may qualify for a monthly credit for their electric bill.
- Arizona Low Income Ratepayer Assistance (LIRA) Program: This program helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills and make energy costs more affordable.
- Power AZ: This utility assistance program provides one‑time financial aid toward qualifying customers’ energy bills.
