With winter comes freezing temperatures and elevated energy bills. If you’re wondering, why your energy bill is higher during the winter, then you’re probably unaware of the small but significant changes that happen this time of year.
No Problem Heating & Cooling is here to help you manage your heating costs. Keep reading to learn some winter heating tips to keep those prices down.
High Winter Energy Usage
The primary reason you use more energy in winter, whether it be electricity or gas, is because you need hot water and hot air to keep you alive and comfortable. Many reasons could explain increased usage, which raises your winter utility bills. For example:
- Using both gas and electricity (in gas furnaces)
- Increased hot water use
- Heavy space heater usage
- Keeping lights on longer
- Using appliances more often
- Staying indoors more often
You might spend more time warming up blankets or pajamas in the dryer. You might also spend long evenings indoors since it gets darker much earlier. These are minor changes in your daily life, but your monthly winter energy bill reflects them nonetheless.
Tips to save could include:
- Wash hands and clothing with cold water.
- Turn off the lights when you can.
- Try to use sweaters, blankets, and socks instead of running a space heater all day.
Poor Energy Efficiency
Is your furnace or ductwork poorly maintained and due for repairs? Your HVAC system may have reduced efficiency from broken parts or clogged filters. If so, it will use more energy to power your home efficiently.
Holes and cracks in the ductwork also let air seep out into the attic, so you won’t feel as much air in the rooms. Getting annual maintenance on your furnace and ductwork in the fall will allow technicians to spot these problems, restore your comfort, and save you money.
Utility Company Price Increase
Pay close attention to your energy rates. Some utility companies raise their prices at the start of the year, which is in the middle of winter.
Have you not changed your usage much? Are you still asking, “Why is my energy bill higher than usual during the winter? A price increase could explain it.
Power Supply and Demand Issues
Utility prices may increase with higher demand in the winter. For example, if there’s a supply issue somewhere down the line, you can expect your heating prices to increase until the company gets a handle on things. Common supply issues include:
- Downed gas pipeline systems prevent the city from receiving gas
- Low gas storage
- Decreased electricity production can’t meet the demand
- A sudden cold snap creates a spike in local energy usage
Properly insulate your home, and keep candles, blankets, and a generator on hand. If you can’t keep up with the price of energy, find ways to stay warm while you cut back.
Problems? Call No Problem Heating & Cooling
At No Problem Heating & Cooling, we know how to keep costs low despite increased seasonal energy consumption. Call (636) 400-3089 for answers from our experts today!
