With the arrival of winter, many people believe they will finally see some relief in their energy bills — after all, the air conditioner stays off and overall consumption tends to drop.
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However, according to House Digest, one common mistake can cause electricity costs to soar during the winter: the excessive use of electric heaters.
Why do electric heaters consume so much energy?
As the name suggests, electric heaters run entirely on electricity — unlike natural gas or oil models. They are especially popular in warmer regions, particularly in the southern United States, where harsh winters are rare and don’t justify investing in robust central heating systems.
According to House Digest, these devices are generally cheaper to install and help maintain good indoor air quality since they don’t produce combustion. However, continuous use comes at a price: a recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that households using electric heaters are expected to see an average increase of 4% in energy bills between November and March.
The forecast for winter 2025
According to House Digest, rising electricity costs are directly tied to weather conditions and energy demand. During a harsh winter, consumption naturally rises, driving up energy bills. In milder seasons, expenses tend to remain stable.
The EIA also projects that retail electricity prices will rise by about 5% during this period. This means that even without major changes in consumption, many households will notice a significant impact on their household budgets.
Additionally, factors such as location and housing type play a role. Homes in colder or poorly insulated areas, for example, require more energy to maintain comfortable temperatures.
How to prevent higher energy bills
House Digest recommends a few simple yet effective strategies to minimize the impact of electric heaters on your electricity bill:
- Adjust the thermostat: Lowering the room temperature by just a few degrees can already lead to noticeable savings.
- Invest in a smart thermostat: This technology automatically regulates heating, preventing energy waste.
- Seal doors and windows: Closing gaps and drafts helps retain heat and reduces the need to keep the heater on for long periods.
- Use portable heaters sparingly: Turn them on only when truly needed and never leave them running unattended — in addition to higher consumption, this poses a fire hazard.
More conscious and efficient energy use
Although they provide comfort, electric heaters should be used carefully and with proper planning. As House Digest emphasizes, adopting smarter consumption habits and investing in energy-efficient solutions can prevent unpleasant surprises on your energy bill and contribute to a more sustainable — yet equally cozy — winter.
Source: House Digest. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
