Rain and Humidity are Impacting Your Energy Bill. Here’s How.
The rainy season brings cooler temperatures, heavy downpours, and higher humidity—but it can also change the way you use electricity. Whether it’s increased heating and lighting needs, added strain on your HVAC system, or unexpected power outages, the weather outside has a direct impact on your home’s energy use. Here’s how rainy weather can influence your electricity bill and what you can do to keep costs in check.
1. Higher Humidity Can Increase Energy Use
Rainy weather often brings higher humidity, making the air inside your home feel warmer and heavier. Even if the temperature stays the same, humidity can create a sticky, uncomfortable atmosphere, leading many people to turn down the thermostat or rely on air conditioning more often. This extra cooling effort causes energy use to rise, even when outdoor temperatures are moderate.
What You Can Do:
- Use a dehumidifier instead of running the AC—it removes excess moisture without overcooling your home.
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent humid air from creeping inside.
- Turn on ceiling fans at low speed to circulate air and create a more comfortable environment.
2. More Time Indoors Means More Energy Use
Rainy days often lead to more time spent indoors, which means more lights, electronics, and appliances running throughout the day. Streaming movies, using home office equipment, and keeping lights on longer than usual all add to your household’s overall energy consumption.
What You Can Do:
- Take advantage of natural daylight by opening blinds when possible to reduce lighting use.
- Use LED bulbs in frequently used rooms—they last longer and use less electricity than traditional bulbs.
- Unplug unused electronics or use smart power strips to cut off standby power from devices that are not in use.
3. Increased Heating Demand on Damp, Chilly Days
Rainy weather doesn’t always bring freezing temperatures, but damp conditions can make your home feel colder than usual. This often leads to reaching for the thermostat, even when the temperature hasn’t dropped significantly.
What You Can Do:
- Layer up before adjusting the heat—extra blankets and warm clothing can help you stay comfortable without extra energy use.
- Seal air leaks around doors and windows to prevent cool drafts from making your home feel colder.
- Use area rugs and curtains to insulate rooms and help maintain indoor warmth.
4. More Hot Water Usage
Between extra showers after getting caught in the rain, washing muddy clothes, and increased handwashing, your home’s hot water demand may rise during the rainy season. If your water heater works harder, it can result in higher electricity use—especially if it’s an older, less efficient model.
What You Can Do:
- Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible—modern detergents work just as well without needing heat.
- Limit shower time to save both water and the energy needed to heat it.
- Lower your water heater temperature slightly—most households can comfortably reduce it to 120°F without sacrificing comfort.
5. Power Outages and Energy Surges
Heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning storms can lead to power outages or voltage surges when electricity is restored. While an outage temporarily reduces energy use, the surge that follows can increase demand on your appliances, sometimes leading to unexpected spikes in your bill.
What You Can Do:
- Use surge protectors for electronics to prevent damage when power is restored.
- Unplug non-essential appliances before an expected storm to reduce strain when power returns.
- Have a backup plan—if outages are frequent in your area, consider battery-powered or generator solutions for essentials like refrigeration and heating.
6. Outdoor Lighting and Security Systems May Stay On Longer
Overcast days and early sunsets during the rainy season mean that outdoor lights and security systems run for extended periods. Motion sensor lights may also be triggered more frequently by wind or rain, adding to overall electricity use.
What You Can Do:
- Use energy-efficient outdoor lighting that offers brightness without excessive power consumption.
- Adjust motion sensor settings to prevent unnecessary activation from minor movements like blowing leaves.
- Set timers for outdoor lights so they only operate when necessary.
How to Stay Ahead of Seasonal Energy Spikes
Rainy weather affects energy use in several ways, but small adjustments can help you manage your electricity costs:
- Monitor your energy use through your provider’s online portal to spot trends early.
- Schedule an HVAC check-up to keep your heating and cooling system running efficiently.
- Be mindful of daily habits—simple changes like unplugging devices, adjusting thermostat settings, and using smart lighting can help keep energy use under control.
At NextVolt Energy, we believe knowledge is power. Being aware of how seasonal weather patterns impact your home’s energy use allows you to make informed choices and keep your bill predictable—even when the weather is anything but.