Resources for lowering your summer cooling bill

You might qualify for discounts and free help

It’s a struggle to keep your utility bills low when it’s hot outside. It’s even harder when electric rates keep going up every year.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. And while common tips like keeping your blinds drawn and sealing up drafts are useful, we know those alone aren’t enough to offset the rising cost of utilities. However, there are resources available that, if you qualify, can help you pay for your bills and lower your costs.

Do you qualify for a lower bill? Eversource and United Illuminating are required to have discounted rates depending on how much money you make. The discount depends on your family size and income. A family of four can qualify for a 10% discount if their income is less than $87,511 a year, and a 50% discount if they make less than $49,920 a year.

Fixes can have long-term results.  To keep your bill low now and in the future, You can make some simple changes to cut down energy costs. 

The Weatherization Assistance Program is meant for working class and middle class people and can help pay for renovations to make your home more energy efficient, which will lower how much electricity you use. You may qualify if you meet the same requirements as the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program. For example, a four-person household qualifies if their income is under $87,511. Generally, if you receive SNAP, SSI, or TANF, you will likely qualify.

Weatherization includes changing your shower heads, sealing drafts, and adding insulation to keep the hot air out. Eversource offers a program where a technician will come to your home for free and show you how you can reduce your bill. 

If you rent, your landlord can apply for weatherization programs if the people in your building qualify for them. Those improvements can lower the energy costs for everyone who lives there. Unfortunately, in Connecticut, landlords are not legally required to provide you with air conditioning.

There are other ways to lower your energy costs, even if you don’t qualify for other programs. You can receive an energy audit that’ll tell you what improvements could lower your heating and cooling bills. Energize CT offers some of these, and they provide free audits for people who qualify for the weatherization assistance program. 

Going green? If you have the space and are allowed to make outdoor changes to your home, try planting a tree. A strategically planted tree in your yard can keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Some cities, like Hartford and New Haven, will give you one for free. Keep an eye out for other giveaways.

Staying cool isn’t just about feeling comfortable. It’s also about keeping yourself safe. Drink more water than usual to stay hydrated, keep out of the full sun, wear lightweight clothing, and wear sunscreen.

If you need a place to go, cooling centers are available when the governor activates the state’s extreme hot weather protocol. You can find your closest cooling center by using 2-1-1’s online tool.