You will likely see a higher-than-normal energy bill due to the frigid temperatures this December. With wind chill, several days dipped into the single digits, according to the National Weather Service.
This means your furnace worked extra hard to keep you comfortable, even if you lowered your thermostat settings.
We know it can be difficult to receive a high bill, especially around the holidays. We want you to know what impacts your winter bills so you can adjust your energy usage and make the right decisions for your budget.
Why is my energy bill higher this month, and how can I manage my future bills?
Bill factor: You’re using more energy by turning up the heat to stay warm.
Tip: Adjust your thermostat to a comfortable level and lower it a few degrees at night or when you’re away. Remember – the bigger the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the higher your energy costs.
Bill factor: Extremely cold weather (like the colder than normal temps we’ve seen in December) makes your furnace work even harder to keep you comfortable.
Tip: When you see freezing temps in the forecast, adjust your heat and energy usage. Use draft blockers to keep cold air from coming in through your doors, windows or walls. 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, heat only the room you’re using and keep doors and windows closed to prevent heat loss. For overall savings, lower your central heating slightly and use the space heater for localized warmth.
Bill factor: Colder and shorter days will keep your household members inside, using more lights and electronics, and potentially adjusting the thermostat to stay comfortable.
Tip: Turn off lights or devices that you aren’t using and set thermostat temperature that everyone in your home is comfortable with.
Remember – your bill may be shorter or longer than usual if your normal bill ending date landed on a holiday or a weekend. Your monthly bill can cover anywhere from 26 to 35 days, depending on holiday dates.
What tools are available to help me manage my energy usage?
Our free Bill Analyzer Tool make it easy to learn how you use energy so you can make the right decisions for your household’s budget. Sign into or create your DTE online account and select the “Analyze my Bill” button to help you:
- Analyze your energy usage by the hour, week, month or year.
- Discover personalized tips to lower your energy usage.
- Understand how outside factors, such as the length of the billing period or weather, can impact your bill.
DTE electric customers can download the free DTE Insight App to help you see, understand, manage and control the energy used to power your home. Use the Insight App to receive energy usage recaps, set budgets and track goals – right in the palm of your hand.
Learn more ways to stay warm and lower your energy bill at dteenergy.com/staywarm.
I need help paying my bill.
If you or anyone you know needs assistance paying their bill, find support and programs at dteenergy.com/help.