Household energy prices rose 7% in the past year. Unplugging unused appliances this fall can help lower your bill before winter hits.
Don’t get hit with a huge electricity bill: The appliances you should unplug before summer ends
Over the past year, average household energy prices have risen by about 7 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As summer winds down, bills will likely dip slightly before winter sets in—and there are a few simple ways to cut your energy costs.
Which regions have seen the largest average increases in energy prices?
States in the Northeast—including New England and the Mid-Atlantic—have seen the largest price increases, rising 10.43 percent between July 2024 and 2025. The Midwest experienced the second-highest jump in electricity bills, with a 9.11 percent increase. Meanwhile, Southern and Western states saw more modest rises, with prices up 5.73 percent and 3.1 percent, respectively, over the past year.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Tips to reduce your energy bill this fall
One easy way to save is by unplugging your appliances. Even when not in use, appliances—from large ones like water heaters and washing machines to smaller ones like coffee pots and toasters—still draw a small amount of energy when plugged in.
During summer, fans, window AC units, and other devices may be left plugged in, quietly adding to your bill. Get ready for fall by unplugging these gadgets, and ideally, you’ll see the difference when your next energy bill arrives.
If you’re packing away fans and air conditioning units this fall, here’s another step that can help you save money next summer: clean them out. If you’ve noticed dust buildup from heavy use, make sure to remove all that debris so when you plug them in next year, they’re running at full capacity and using energy efficiently.
What about your air conditioning system?
The same goes for installed air conditioning systems. It’s a good idea to have your system inspected and serviced by a professional at least once a year. This can help catch and fix potential issues before they become expensive problems, saving you money in the long run.
Additionally, cleaning or replacing air filters monthly—or as recommended by the manufacturer—can keep your system working efficiently. Dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce performance, forcing your system to work harder and use more energy.
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