Are you asking yourself, “how can I lower my SMUD bill?” The team at Rios & Burke is here to help. As licensed, local electricians (and Top Contractor Award recipients from SMUD for 2025), we’ve seen how quickly electricity costs can rise during Sacramento’s hot summers and cool winter months.
The good news? There are practical ways to reduce energy usage while keeping monthly utility costs more predictable. From upgrading lighting to improving electrical systems, we’re here to share our pro tips on how small improvements can make a noticeable difference over time.
1) Understand SMUD’s Time-of-Day Rates
SMUD uses a Time-of-Day (TOD) pricing system that charges a variable rate when energy is used. During peak hours, including late afternoon and early evening, electricity usually costs more because demand across the grid is higher. Waiting until off-peak hours to rely heavily on your electricity can offer cost savings through lower rates. For example, try:
- Running dishwashers or laundry machines later in the evening
- Charging electric vehicles overnight
- Pre-cooling your home earlier in the day before peak pricing begins
- Avoiding heavy appliance use during peak hours
- Even small scheduling adjustments can add up over the course of a billing cycle.
2) Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Lighting upgrades are an easy way to lower your SMUD bill. If your home still uses incandescent or older halogen bulbs, switching to LED lighting can significantly lower energy consumption. LED bulbs use far less electricity while producing the same amount of light.
Switching to LED lighting can help:
- Lower energy consumption
- Longer lifespan than traditional bulbs
- Reduced heat output
- Lower replacement costs over time
- Many homeowners see noticeable energy savings simply by updating lighting throughout the house.
3) Improve Your Home’s Electrical Efficiency
Sometimes high utility bills are due to outdated, aging electrical systems or inefficient equipment. Older homes are also known to have higher SMUD bills due to aging electrical infrastructure.
Electrical upgrades that may help reduce energy use include:
- Installing smart thermostats
- Upgrading outdated electrical panels
- Installing dedicated circuits for modern appliances
- Adding energy-efficient lighting systems
- Updating wiring for newer equipment
Our licensed electricians evaluate your home’s electrical system and recommend improvements that support both safety and efficiency.
4) Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation
A significant portion of residential energy use goes directly toward your heating and cooling bills. If cool air conditioning escapes through gaps or poor insulation, HVAC systems must work harder to maintain indoor temperatures.
Here are some common areas to inspect:
- Attic insulation
- Window and door seals
- Garage-to-house connections
- Ductwork leaks
- Crawl spaces
5) Use Smart Home Technology
Smart home devices can directly help homeowners monitor and manage electricity usage more effectively.
Examples include:
- Smart thermostats that adjust temperatures automatically
- Smart plugs that reduce standby energy consumption
- Energy monitoring systems that track real-time electricity use
- Programmable lighting schedules
6) Maintain Your HVAC System
Heating and cooling systems usually put the biggest strain on your electricity. Poorly maintained systems must run longer and harder to achieve the same results.
- Regular maintenance can improve efficiency and extend equipment life.
- Helpful maintenance steps include:
- Replacing HVAC filters regularly
- Scheduling professional HVAC inspections
- Cleaning vents and airflow pathways
- Ensuring thermostat settings are optimized
SMUD Bill FAQs
What uses the most electricity in a home?
Heating and cooling systems typically account for the largest share of residential electricity use. Other major contributors include water heaters, laundry appliances, ovens, and electric vehicle charging.
Does running appliances at night lower my SMUD bill?
Yes, SMUD’s Time-of-Day rates mean electricity is usually cheaper during off-peak hours, which often include late evening and overnight periods. Try running appliances during those times to potentially reduce energy costs.
Do LED lights really save electricity?
Yes, LED bulbs use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Switching to LED lighting throughout a home can noticeably reduce electricity consumption.
How can an electrician help reduce energy bills?
An electrician evaluates your electrical system, identify outdated components, and recommend upgrades that improve efficiency and safety. Improvements like lighting upgrades, smart systems, or panel replacements can support better energy management.
Are electrical panel upgrades worth it for energy efficiency?
Yes, older panels may struggle to support modern electrical loads efficiently. Upgrading a panel can improve reliability, support newer appliances, and prepare a home for future energy needs such as EV charging or smart home systems.
Call Rios & Burke Electrical for Electrical Upgrades, Repairs, and More
Reducing your SMUD bill usually involves a combination of better energy habits, efficient equipment, and modern electrical systems. By shifting energy use outside peak hours, upgrading lighting, improving insulation, and maintaining electrical systems, homeowners can often lower their monthly electricity costs while making their homes more comfortable. Get a quote today!