When the outside temperature gets closer to the freezing mark, heat pumps become less efficient and use more electricity to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. This prolonged stretch of below-freezing temperatures we are experiencing is keeping heat pumps running almost constantly and consuming more electricity just to keep you comfortable.
As a result of the prolonged cold and higher energy usage, January energy bills will be higher. This is true for electricity consumers across the state of Virginia, regardless of who your electricity provider is. We can assure you that CVEC rates did not increase in January – the amount of energy required to maintain a comfortable temperature inside homes did. We are encouraging members to act now to save energy to help offset the increased usage due to the frigid temperatures.
- Set your thermostat as low as comfortable. The greater the difference between your thermostat and the outside temperature, the more your heat pump must run to condition your home.
- Make sure air vents are unobstructed.
- Seal air gaps around windows, baseboards, doors, and other places where air leaks may occur.
- Bundle up. Instead of bumping your thermostat up, wear additional layers, cozy socks, and use blankets to help keep you warm.
- Use supplemental heating options, such as gas logs or wood-burning fireplaces to help offset your energy consumption.
- Be careful with using space heaters. They are energy hogs and aren’t designed to heat large spaces or be a primary source of heat! Running a 1,500W space heater for 8 hours per day can increase your monthly energy bill by over $40.
- Limit the use of nonessential appliances and lights.
- Reduce phantom load by unplugging electronics when not in use.
Members can monitor energy usage and compare usage to fluctuations in the weather, as well as sign up for usage alert text messages using the online portal. If you do not have an online portal account, sign up online.
