Understanding This Year’s Higher Winter Bills
January 2025 was the nation’s coldest January since 1988, according to the federal government. With unusually low temperatures persisting throughout the winter, many members are seeing higher electric bills arrive in their mailbox a month later.
Even if you haven’t changed anything in your home, colder weather can significantly impact energy use.
Why Are Winter Bills Higher?
Heating systems work harder to maintain your preferred indoor temperature when the outdoor temperature drops. Even if your thermostat settings remain the same, your heating unit runs more frequently and for longer periods of time, leading to increased energy use. Additionally, shorter days and longer nights mean more reliance on artificial lighting, further contributing to higher utility costs.
Here are several steps you can take to improve efficiency, diagnose the cause, and keep your bill in check:
- Adjust Your Thermostat: Lowering your thermostat by a few degrees when you’re asleep or away will help. A programmable or smart thermostat can help automate temperature adjustments.
- Seal Leaks and Drafts: Inspect doors, windows, and vents for drafts and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking. Even small leaks can let warm air escape, making your heating system work harder.
- Use Sunlight to Your Advantage: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let in natural heat and close them at night to retain warmth.
- Maintain Your Heating System: Regularly replace air filters and schedule maintenance checks to ensure your furnace or heat pump operates efficiently.
- Bundle Up and Use Layers: Instead of turning up the heat, wear warm clothing and use blankets to stay comfortable indoors.
- Don’t Use Space Heaters: If possible, avoid using them at all.
- Unplug Unused Devices: Even when turned off, many electronics continue to draw power. Unplugging devices or using smart power strips can help cut down on “phantom” energy use.
By making these small adjustments, you can keep your home comfortable while reducing energy consumption and keeping your winter utility bills in check.
