Don’t be surprised when you see a higher-than-normal energy bill this winter. Your energy bill is shaped mostly by how much natural gas and electricity you use; and in the winter, you use more energy. Learn more about what drives up your energy usage so you can find ways to save:
1. More energy use
When it’s cold outside, you turn up the heat to stay warm. Your furnace may run more often and for longer, which increases the amount of natural gas and electricity you use.
Tip: If you don’t already have one, install a programmable thermostat and set it to your business’s schedule – warmer when you’re open and cooler when you’re closed. Move furniture and rugs away from vents to make sure warm air is circulating properly throughout your business.
2. Extreme temperatures
Big drops in temperature make your furnace work even harder to keep your business comfortable.
Tip: When you see freezing temps in the forecast, adjust your heat and energy usage so you won’t see a larger bill next month. You may need to dial it back a degree or two more to account for extreme temperatures. Try not to use a space heater, as these use a lot of electricity to make you warm, which can also impact your bill. If you must use one, do it safely. Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets, keep them three feet from flammable items, and turn them off when leaving the room or sleeping. Use draft blockers to keep cold air from coming in through your doors, windows or walls.
3. Seasonal shifts in behavior
Colder and shorter days means your team spends more time indoors, uses more lights and adjusts the thermostat to stay comfortable.
Tip: Turn off lights or devices that you aren’t using and agree to a set thermostat temperature that everyone at your location is comfortable with.
4. Type of building
The age, layout, build material, size and appliances of your building impact your energy usage.
Tip: Seal air leaks around windows and doors to keep warm air in and cool air out.
For more tips on how to manage your winter bill, visit dteenergy.com/heatingseason.