Winter can be a challenging time to manage your electric bill, especially for homes that rely on electricity for heating. Prolonged cold temperatures mean heating systems must run longer and work harder, which often results in higher electric bills arriving in February. Understanding how winter weather affects energy use can help you take steps to better manage your costs.

WHY COLD WEATHER INCREASES ENERGY USE

As outdoor temperatures drop, more energy is required to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Heating systems must run more frequently and for longer periods of time to make up for heat lost through walls, windows, and air leaks. Because your electric bill is directly tied to how much electricity you use, higher use leads to higher bills.

Small changes can make a difference. Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can typically reduce heating costs by about 3 to 5%, depending on your home and heating system.

HOW COLD HAS IT BEEN?

It is easy to forget the weather by the time your bill arrives. This winter has brought sustained cold across central Indiana, including Bartholomew County.

December: Average daytime highs were generally in the low 40s, with overnight lows in the mid-to-upper 20s.

January: Many days have been significantly colder than the long-term January averages, with several days well below 0 F for lows, and highs often below the typical 30s.

These colder conditions mean heating systems have been running much more than they do during milder weather.

IMPACT ON ELECTRIC HEATING SYSTEMS

If your home uses electric heat or a heat pump with electric backup, you will likely notice a larger increase in electric use during cold spells. When temperatures fall far enough, heat pumps rely more heavily on backup electric resistance heat, which uses significantly more electricity. The size of the increase depends on your home’s insulation, air tightness, thermostat settings, and the efficiency of your HVAC system.

IMPACT ON GAS OR PROPANE HEATING

Even homes heated by natural gas or propane still use electricity. Components such as the ignition system and blower fan cycle more often during cold weather, which increases electric use even if the primary heat source is not electric.

OTHER WINTER ENERGY USERS

Cold weather can also increase electricity use from other sources around your home.

Outdoor hot tubs: Cold air temperatures require heaters to run more often to maintain safe water temperatures and prevent freezing.

Vehicle block heaters: Common for trucks, semis, and buses, these typically cost around 10-12 cents per hour, depending on your electric rate.

Space heaters: While convenient, space heaters are energy intensive and typically cost around 15-18 cents per hour to operate. If you use a space heater, consider lowering your main thermostat to help offset the additional electricity use.

PROGRAMS THAT CAN HELP

Bartholomew County REMC offers programs designed to help members reduce energy use and manage costs.

• Rebates on new systems: Incentives are available for installing high efficiency heating and cooling equipment.
• HVAC tune-ups: Regular maintenance and frequent filter changes help systems operate more efficiently and can reduce energy use.

Learn more about available energy saving incentives at bcremc.com/incentives.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

BCREMC also offers flexible payment options and can connect eligible members with Indiana winter assistance programs. If you are struggling to manage your bill, please reach out. We are here to help.

By understanding how cold weather impacts energy use and taking advantage of available resources, you can make informed choices and better manage your electric bill throughout the winter months.