Big houses, big trucks, and big hearts – everything’s bigger in Texas! But when it comes to powering those spacious Texas homes, “bigger” can also mean higher electricity bills that’ll give your wallet a Texas-sized workout.

This article is your go-to guide for understanding Texas power usage and offers practical ways for home energy management. Whether you’re a proud owner of a Lone Star State mansion or simply interested in optimizing your energy consumption, read on.

Texas Living: Where Size Really Does Matter

Sure, Texas is famous for its barbecue and Longhorn cattle, but did you know it’s also the second-largest state in America? With homes averaging 2,170 square feet – compared to the national average of 2,014 square feet – it’s clear that Texans enjoy their space.

Texas is well-known not just for its size, but also for its energy production and use. A considerable chunk of this power goes into keeping large homes operational. Explore how to efficiently power your spacious Texas home and discover strategies to reduce your electricity bills.

Texas Power Usage and Generation

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), nearly a quarter of the U.S.’s total energy production comes from Texas. The state’s energy deregulation has made electricity more affordable for residents, but owning a large home can still mean a hefty bill. This juxtaposition begs the question – why do Texans have high energy bills despite lower electricity rates?

What Drives Up Energy Consumption in Texas Homes?

In a nutshell, it’s a mix of home size and climate. With an average home size of 2,170 square feet, Texas ranks 11th in the country for spacious homes. The state’s warm climate also shifts the energy usage figures. Space heating accounts for 22% of a home’s energy usage, and air conditioning isn’t far behind at 18%. For those with bigger homes, these percentages can even rise, translating to larger bills.

In the hot Texas summers, BBQs are the go-to activity, air conditioners work overtime, pools need constant filtering, and gardens require regular watering. This lifestyle often results in substantial electricity bills for many residents.

Do Bigger Homes Consume More Electricity?

Simply put, yes. EIA data indicates that a detached single-family home in Texas consumes around three times as much energy as an apartment building with five or more units. A bigger space often equals more appliances, more rooms to heat or cool, and overall higher energy needs.

Every home is unique, just like its owner, and various factors influence its energy consumption. Elements like local climate, the home’s age and condition, the number of occupants, and overall energy efficiency all play a role in determining electricity bills.

Smart Ways to Lower Your Electricity Bill in a Large Texas Home

• Zone Heating/Cooling – Don’t heat or cool the entire house. Use zone heating and cooling systems to target specific areas.
• Insulation – Make sure your home is well-insulated to maintain temperature.
• Thermostat Settings – Keep the indoor temperature at a recommended 78 degrees Fahrenheit during warm spells.
• HVAC Maintenance – Regularly clean and service your HVAC systems.
• Lighting – Switch to LED bulbs and always turn off lights before leaving a room.
• Switch Suppliers – Texas’ deregulated market allows you to switch energy providers. This could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year.

Managing Electricity in Large Texas Homes

Electric bills can be a major expense, especially for those with larger homes. Adopting a few energy-saving measures, some home energy management tips, along with potentially switching your supplier can be as beneficial as sealing a smart business deal.

Managing your Texas power usage efficiently is essentially a win-win-win: good for your pocket, good for your energy supplier, and good for the environment. So go ahead, give your home the energy tune-up it deserves!

Sources:

“States By Area,” World Population Review, https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/states-by-area
“How Big Is Your Home? Here Is the Average Home Size by State,” The Ascent, https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/mortgages/articles/how-big-is-your-home-here-is-the-average-home-size-by-state/
“Texas: Profile Analysis,” U.S. Energy Information Administration, https://www.eia.gov/state/analysis.php?sid=TX
“Use of energy explained: Energy Use in Homes,” U.S. Energy Information Administration, https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/use-of-energy/homes.php
“Energy Tips for Institutional and Government Buildings,” Department of Energy & Environment, https://doee.dc.gov/service/energy-tips-institutional-and-government-buildings