Let’s not sugarcoat it: nobody wants to throw money at their electric bill. But month after month, what do most of us do when that number climbs? We grumble. Maybe joke about the AC running a marathon. And then… nothing changes.
But here’s the truth that might sting a little: If you’re not actively doing something to lower your energy usage and finding ways to reduce your power bill, you’re basically handing over cash to your utility company. And in this economy, that’s not just frustrating, it’s unnecessary.
Why This Isn’t Just a “Someday” Problem
Your HVAC is in beast mode, and you add in constant streaming, smart gadgets, maybe even an EV charging in the driveway, and your power meter’s spinning like a roulette wheel. But here’s the part nobody tells you: You can start cutting that bill today. Not with expensive upgrades or complicated tech. Just simple, smart moves.
And if you’re a Tampa Electric (TECO) customer? You’ve got tools most folks don’t even know about.
Here are 5 ways you can save money on your power bill, starting this week!
1. Do a $20 Walk-Around
Yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Spend 15 minutes today (not next week!) walking through your home. Look for:
- Stuff plugged in but not in use (that old printer, dusty console, mystery charger)
- Lights blazing in empty rooms
- The garage fridge from 2007 humming like it’s still cool
Flip, unplug, power down. Families who do this regularly save $15 to $30 a month, just by being a little more aware.
2. Rethink Your Thermostat Habits
Every degree you bump up your thermostat, you save about 3% on cooling costs. Raise it from 72° to 75° and flip on a ceiling fan. Most people don’t even feel the difference, but your bill will.
Even better: TECO’s Prime Time Plus program gives you up to $144/year in credits when you install a smart thermostat and let them manage energy during peak times for automatic savings.
3. Shift When You Use Power
Here’s a little secret not everyone knows about: electricity isn’t always priced the same. TECO’s Energy Planner lets you pay less when you run appliances outside peak hours, like overnight laundry, evening dishwasher cycles, or EV charging at 2 a.m. It’s the same energy usage with a smaller bill. That’s a no-brainer.
4. Get a Free Home Energy Audit (Seriously)
Most people don’t even realize this is an option, but TECO will send a certified energy analyst to your home for free. They’ll check your insulation, HVAC, ductwork — all the places energy (and money) could be slipping away.
You’ll get a customized report showing exactly what’s costing you and how to fix it. Even better? You can do a quick online audit using your own energy data. Or go big: pay $15 for a deeper dive, or request a BERS rating (if you want gold-standard home efficiency testing).
5. Cash In on Rebates and Free Upgrades
TECO isn’t just telling you what to fix; they’re helping cover the cost. Right now, you could qualify for:
- Duct Repair Rebates – Seal leaks and save on heating/cooling
- Insulation Rebates – TECO pays $0.16/sq. ft. when you upgrade
- Smart Thermostat Discounts – Save on ENERGY STAR® models
- HVAC System Rebates – Get cash back for high-efficiency units
- Neighborhood Weatherization Program – Free duct sealing + attic insulation if you qualify
We’re talking hundreds of dollars back in your pocket.
You may also be interested in: 5 Things We Wish You Knew About Lowering Your Electric Bill
Don’t Wait for the Next Big Bill to Feel Regret
You can lower your electric bill. Starting this week. With real tools. Real support. And zero gimmicks. If you’re a TECO customer, you’ve got an unfair advantage, with free audits, rebates, smarter tools, and ways to save that most people never hear about.
What to Do Right Now
Schedule your free Home Energy Audit.
Call 813-275-3909
Or go to tampaelectric.com/energyaudit