How to Save on PECO Electric Bills in Pennsylvania

For residents of Pennsylvania, managing monthly electricity expenses is a growing concern as energy costs continue to rise. PECO, the primary electric utility serving southeastern Pennsylvaniaincluding Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery countiesprovides power to over 1.6 million customers. With variable rates influenced by market conditions, seasonal demand, and infrastructure costs, many households find their electric bills unexpectedly high, especially during summer heatwaves and winter cold snaps. The good news? Significant savings are achievable through strategic behavior, smart technology, and leveraging available programs designed to reduce consumption without sacrificing comfort. This comprehensive guide reveals proven, actionable methods to lower your PECO electric bill, whether you rent or own, live in a historic rowhome or a modern suburban house. By implementing the steps outlined here, you can reduce your monthly energy costs by 15% to 40%, improve home efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Analyze Your Current Usage Patterns

Before making any changes, you must understand how and when you use electricity. PECO provides detailed usage data through its online customer portal, MyPECOAccount. Log in and navigate to the Usage section to view your daily and hourly consumption trends over the past 12 months. Look for spikes during peak hours (typically 27 PM on weekdays) and identify which appliances or systems are responsible. For example, if your usage surges every afternoon, your air conditioner may be running inefficiently. If nighttime consumption remains high, consider phantom loads from devices left plugged in. Use this data to establish a baseline so you can measure progress after implementing changes.

2. Switch to a Time-of-Use (TOU) Rate Plan

PECO offers a Time-of-Use rate option that charges different prices depending on the time of day. During off-peak hours (typically 8 PM to 6 AM on weekdays and all day on weekends), rates are significantly lower. If your lifestyle allows you to shift energy-intensive taskslike laundry, dishwashing, and charging electric vehiclesto these periods, you can save up to 30% on your bill. To enroll, visit MyPECOAccount and select Rate Plans. Compare your current plans average cost per kWh with the TOU plans off-peak and peak rates. If you use more than 40% of your electricity during off-peak hours, this switch is likely beneficial. Note: TOU plans require a smart meter, which PECO has already installed for most customers.

3. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation

Up to 30% of heating and cooling energy is lost through poor insulation and air leaks. Start by inspecting windows, doors, electrical outlets, attic hatches, and ductwork for drafts. Use weatherstripping around doors and window frames, apply caulk to gaps in baseboards and trim, and install foam gaskets behind outlet covers. In the attic, ensure insulation meets or exceeds R-38 recommendations for Pennsylvanias climate zone. If your home was built before 1980, consider adding blown-in cellulose or fiberglass insulationthis is one of the most cost-effective upgrades, often paying for itself in under two years through reduced HVAC runtime. Dont forget to seal ducts in unconditioned spaces like crawlspaces and attics using mastic sealant, not duct tape.

4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers can consume 3050% more electricity than ENERGY STAR certified models. Replace units that are over 10 years old, especially if theyre inefficient or frequently breaking down. Look for the ENERGY STAR label and compare the Estimated Annual Energy Use on the yellow EnergyGuide label. A new ENERGY STAR refrigerator can save you $150$250 per year compared to a 15-year-old model. For clothes washers, choose a front-loading model with a high Modified Energy Factor (MEF) and low water factor. Consider upgrading your water heater to a heat pump model (HPWH), which uses ambient air to heat water and can reduce water heating costs by 5070%. Many PECO customers qualify for rebates on these upgradessee the Tools and Resources section for details.

5. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Heating and cooling account for nearly half of a typical homes energy use. A programmable thermostat lets you automatically lower the temperature in winter (to 68F or lower) when youre asleep or away, and raise it in summer (to 78F or higher). Smart thermostats like Nest or Ecobee go further by learning your habits, adjusting based on occupancy, and sending usage reports. Studies show proper thermostat use can reduce HVAC energy consumption by 1012% annually. Set your thermostat to 68F during the day in winter and 78F in summer. Use the away mode when youre out for more than four hours. Pair your thermostat with PECOs Home Energy Assessment program for additional savings and expert recommendations.

6. Replace Incandescent and Halogen Bulbs with LEDs

LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Replace all bulbs in high-use areas like kitchens, living rooms, and outdoor lighting. Even replacing a single 60-watt incandescent bulb with a 10-watt LED saves about $7 per year per bulb. If you have 20 bulbs, thats $140 in annual savings. LEDs also emit less heat, reducing cooling load in summer. Many hardware stores and PECO partner retailers offer free or discounted LED bulbs through seasonal promotions. Check the PECO website for current lighting rebates.

7. Unplug Phantom Loads and Use Smart Power Strips

Electronics like TVs, game consoles, computers, coffee makers, and phone chargers continue drawing power even when turned offa phenomenon known as phantom load or vampire power. Collectively, these can account for 510% of your total electricity bill. Use smart power strips that cut power to devices when theyre not in use, or manually unplug items after each use. For entertainment centers, plug everything into one smart strip and turn it off with a single switch. Set your computer to sleep mode after 10 minutes of inactivity. Disable quick start features on devices that keep internal components powered.

8. Optimize Your Water Heating System

Water heating is the second-largest energy expense in most homes. Lower your water heaters thermostat to 120Fthis is sufficient for all household needs and prevents scalding. Insulate your water heater tank and the first six feet of hot and cold pipes with a pre-cut foam jacket (available at hardware stores). If you have an older tank-style heater, consider replacing it with a heat pump water heater, which can cut water heating costs in half. Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce hot water use by up to 60%. Take shorter showers and wash clothes in cold water whenever possible.

9. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically

Ceiling fans dont cool the airthey create a wind-chill effect on your skin. In summer, run fans counterclockwise at medium or high speed to push air down. In winter, reverse the fan direction to clockwise on low speed to gently circulate warm air trapped near the ceiling. Always turn off fans when you leave the room; they only provide comfort when someone is present. Use fans to reduce reliance on air conditioning, especially during mild weather. Pairing fans with your thermostat can allow you to raise the AC setting by 4F without reducing comfort.

10. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

A dirty air filter can increase your HVAC systems energy use by up to 15%. Replace or clean your filter every 13 months, depending on usage and pet ownership. Schedule annual professional maintenance for your furnace and air conditioner. Technicians will clean coils, check refrigerant levels, lubricate moving parts, and calibrate thermostatsall of which improve efficiency and extend equipment life. A well-maintained system runs smoother, uses less power, and breaks down less often.

Best Practices

1. Avoid Peak Demand Hours

PECOs grid experiences maximum strain between 2 PM and 7 PM on weekdays, especially during summer. During these hours, electricity generation relies on expensive, less efficient peaker plants. Avoid running the dishwasher, oven, clothes dryer, or electric vehicle charger during this window. Batch tasks: Do all laundry on one day, use the oven for multiple dishes, and charge devices overnight. If you have solar panels, use stored energy during peak hours to offset grid usage.

2. Conduct Seasonal Energy Audits

Adjust your energy-saving strategies with the seasons. In spring and fall, open windows for natural ventilation instead of using AC. In winter, open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to capture passive solar heat, then close them at night to retain warmth. In summer, close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day to block solar gain. These simple habits reduce mechanical system workload without any cost.

3. Leverage Weather-Based Adjustments

Use your thermostats smart response feature (if available) to adjust temperature settings based on outdoor forecasts. If a heatwave is predicted, pre-cool your home in the early morning when rates are lower. If a cold front is coming, raise your heat slightly before the temperature drops. Smart thermostats can automate this, but even manual adjustments based on weather apps can make a difference.

4. Educate All Household Members

Energy savings are a team effort. Teach children and roommates to turn off lights, unplug devices, and report drafts or malfunctioning appliances. Create a simple checklist posted near the thermostat: Lights off when leaving room, Unplug charger after use, Close door when using AC. Small behavioral changes from everyone multiply into substantial savings.

5. Monitor Your Bill Monthly

Compare your bill to the same month last year. If usage increased without a change in habits, investigate a possible appliance malfunction, leaky duct, or thermostat issue. Set up email alerts through MyPECOAccount to notify you when your usage exceeds your average. This early warning system helps you catch problems before they become costly.

6. Avoid High-Energy Cooking Methods

Electric ovens and stovetops consume significantly more energy than microwaves, toaster ovens, or slow cookers. Use the microwave to reheat leftoversit uses 80% less energy than a conventional oven. Cook with a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to reduce cooking time and energy use. Grill outdoors in summer instead of using the oven. Cover pots and pans to retain heat and reduce cooking time.

7. Use Natural Light Wisely

Maximize daylight by rearranging furniture near windows and using light-colored walls and reflective surfaces. Replace heavy drapes with sheer curtains to allow more light in without sacrificing privacy. Avoid using artificial lighting during daylight hours unless absolutely necessary. This reduces both lighting and cooling loads, as incandescent and halogen bulbs generate heat.

8. Maintain Landscaping for Energy Efficiency

Strategically planted trees and shrubs can reduce cooling costs by up to 25%. Plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home to provide shade in summer and allow sunlight through in winter. Evergreens planted on the north and northwest sides act as windbreaks to reduce winter heating loads. Keep shrubs trimmed away from air conditioning units to ensure proper airflow.

Tools and Resources

1. PECOs MyPECOAccount Portal

This free, secure online dashboard is your most valuable tool. It provides real-time usage data, historical graphs, billing history, and personalized tips based on your consumption patterns. You can also set budget alerts, view outage maps, and enroll in payment plans. Access it at peco.com/myaccount.

2. PECO Home Energy Assessment

PECO offers free or low-cost home energy assessments to qualifying customers. A certified technician visits your home to perform a blower door test, infrared scan, and HVAC evaluation. They identify air leaks, insulation gaps, and inefficient equipmentand provide a customized report with recommended upgrades. Many improvements are eligible for instant rebates or financing. Visit peco.com/energyassessment to apply.

3. PA Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides financial aid to eligible households for heating and cooling costs. While primarily for winter, some funds may be available for summer AC assistance. Apply through your countys Community Action Agency. Visit energyassistance.pa.gov to check eligibility and apply online.

4. ENERGY STAR Rebates

PECO partners with ENERGY STAR to offer rebates on qualifying appliances. For example, you may receive $100$300 for a new heat pump water heater, $50 for a smart thermostat, or $75 for an ENERGY STAR refrigerator. Visit peco.com/rebates to view current offers and eligibility requirements. Rebates are often processed within 68 weeks.

5. PECOs Energy Savings Calculator

Use the interactive calculator on PECOs website to estimate potential savings from specific upgrades. Input your current appliance ages, square footage, and usage habits to receive personalized projections. This tool helps prioritize investments with the fastest return on investment.

6. Smart Home Integrations

Integrate your thermostat, lighting, and appliances with platforms like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa. Set voice-activated routines: Goodnight turns off all lights, locks doors, and adjusts the thermostat. Use geofencing to automatically adjust settings when your phone leaves or arrives home. These automations reduce human error and ensure consistent savings.

7. Local Utility Incentives

Some municipalities and counties in PECOs service area offer additional rebates for solar panels, EV chargers, or insulation. Check with your city or township websitefor example, Philadelphias Green City, Clean Waters program includes energy efficiency grants for homeowners.

8. Energy Efficiency Workshops

PECO occasionally hosts free virtual and in-person workshops on energy-saving techniques. Topics include How to Read Your Bill, DIY Weatherization, and Smart Thermostat Setup. Sign up through the PECO Events calendar.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Smith Family (Suburban Home, 2,200 sq ft)

The Smiths in Montgomery County were paying $210 per month in summer and $180 in winter. After enrolling in PECOs TOU plan, they shifted laundry and dishwasher use to after 8 PM. They replaced their 15-year-old refrigerator with an ENERGY STAR model and installed a smart thermostat. They also sealed air leaks around windows and added attic insulation. Within three months, their average monthly bill dropped to $135a 38% reduction. Their payback period for upgrades was under 18 months.

Example 2: Maria, Renting a Rowhome in Philadelphia

Maria, a single mother renting a 1,100 sq ft rowhome, struggled with high summer bills due to poor insulation and an old window AC unit. With no funds for major upgrades, she used free weatherstripping kits from PECO, installed blackout curtains, and used a programmable timer on her AC to turn it off during work hours. She unplugged all electronics and switched to LED bulbs. Her bill dropped from $190 to $110 per montha 42% savingswithout spending a dime on new equipment.

Example 3: The Chen Household (Home with Solar Panels)

The Chens in Delaware County installed a 6 kW solar system in 2022 and switched to PECOs TOU plan. They programmed their EV charger to run only during off-peak hours and used a smart thermostat to pre-cool their home using solar energy before peak rates kicked in. Their net monthly bill is now $12mostly a small grid connection fee. They even earned bill credits in summer months when their panels produced excess energy.

Example 4: A 1920s Apartment Building in Bucks County

A property owner with five units upgraded all lighting to LEDs, installed smart thermostats in each unit, and sealed ducts in the basement. Tenants were given usage reports and energy-saving tips. Within one year, average electricity consumption per unit dropped from 850 kWh/month to 580 kWh/month. The owner passed 70% of the savings to tenants through reduced rent, improving tenant retention and property value.

FAQs

Can I really save $100+ per month on my PECO bill?

Absolutely. Most households can achieve 2040% savings by combining behavioral changes with low-cost upgrades like LED bulbs, smart thermostats, and sealing air leaks. Larger savings come from replacing old appliances or switching to TOU plans. The examples above show reductions of $50$100+ monthly.

Is PECOs Time-of-Use plan right for me?

If you can shift at least 40% of your electricity use to off-peak hours (8 PM6 AM), yes. Check your usage history in MyPECOAccount. If your peak hours (27 PM) show high consumption, TOU may not be ideal unless you change your habits.

Do I need to buy expensive smart devices to save money?

No. Many savings come from free or low-cost actions: unplugging devices, using fans, adjusting your thermostat, and sealing leaks. Smart devices accelerate savings but arent required.

How often should I replace my HVAC filter?

Every 13 months, depending on pets, allergies, and usage. A dirty filter can increase energy use by up to 15% and strain your system.

Can renters save on PECO bills too?

Yes. Renters can use smart power strips, LED bulbs, window insulation kits, and programmable timers. Many landlords will allow small, removable upgrades if theyre non-damaging.

Are there tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Federal tax credits are available for solar panels, heat pumps, insulation, and energy-efficient windows. Pennsylvania does not offer a state income tax credit for energy upgrades, but PECO rebates and utility incentives are available.

Whats the biggest energy waster in most homes?

Heating and cooling systems, followed by old refrigerators, water heaters, and phantom loads. Addressing these three areas typically yields the fastest return on investment.

How do I know if my water heater is inefficient?

If its over 10 years old, makes unusual noises, takes longer to heat water, or youre running out of hot water quickly, its likely inefficient. Check for rust around the base or a leaking pressure valvethese are signs it needs replacement.

Can I get a free energy audit?

Yes. PECO offers free home energy assessments to qualifying customers. Visit peco.com/energyassessment to apply. The audit includes a blower door test, infrared imaging, and a personalized savings plan.

Will installing solar panels eliminate my PECO bill?

Not entirely. Even with solar, youll still pay a small monthly connection fee to remain connected to the grid. However, your electricity charges can be reduced to $0, and you may even earn credits during high-production months.

Conclusion

Saving on your PECO electric bill isnt about drastic lifestyle changesits about smart, consistent habits combined with strategic investments. From sealing air leaks and upgrading to LED lighting to enrolling in Time-of-Use plans and leveraging rebates, every action adds up. The real power lies in combining multiple strategies: behavioral adjustments, technology upgrades, and utilizing available resources. Whether you live in a historic Philadelphia townhouse or a modern Chester County subdivision, the principles remain the same: reduce waste, optimize usage, and choose efficiency. Start with one stepanalyze your usage on MyPECOAccountand build from there. Over time, these changes wont just lower your bills; theyll make your home more comfortable, durable, and sustainable. The savings are real, the tools are accessible, and the time to act is now. Begin today, and watch your energy costs shrink month after month.