How much does each degree of heating cost?
January 28th, 2022
During the coldest periods of the year, it is quite legitimate to wonder about our heating costs. Obviously, winter is the period when the heating system is working at full capacity. If it is powered by electricity, it is quite normal that your bill is higher. Moreover, for the same type of dwelling, the consumption related to heating differs from one region to another. For example, since the winter is longer and colder in Rouyn-Noranda, heating will necessarily be more expensive. So even if you don’t touch your thermostat, the bill will be more expensive in winter because your heating system will have to work much harder to maintain the same temperature, the one that ensures a minimum of comfort during the coldest weather. The following blog post will attempt to answer some of your questions related to the costs associated with turning your heating up or down.
Energy Billing
In Quebec, the energy bill is based on the total consumption during a given period. For example, if your consumption period is 62 days, you are entitled to 2,480 kWh at the first rate of 6.159¢/kWh for the equivalent of 40 kilowatt hours per day. If you exceed this energy expenditure, you will be charged the second tier price of 9.502¢/kWh. These are the current rates that generally apply to domestic use, which is the use of electricity in a home. Decrease the temperature by just one degree Celsius and you could reduce your heating costs by 5 to 7%. This means that after a certain energy expenditure, your electricity costs you more. It is therefore important to save energy to ensure that your bill is not too expensive.
How to reduce your bill in winter?
In order to reduce your heating costs, several solutions exist. The first is to address air leaks. Indeed, reducing air leaks and thermal insulation will have a strong influence on your total bill. Warm air leakage and cold air infiltration accounts for 25% of total heat loss. In anticipation of winter, it is therefore recommended to caulk windows and doors and to install weather stripping.
You can also install removable plastic heat-shrink film on windows when you feel air infiltration. In addition to reducing leakage around the sash, these films reduce heat loss through the glazing by creating an air space. Heat leakage and cold air infiltration also occur through the outlet covers. It is therefore a good idea to install foam pads between the plate and the socket and switch box to reduce heat loss through the exterior walls. Also, don’t forget to seal around pipes and ventilation outlets.
Cleaning the exterior outlet dampers of air extractors is also very important. We’re talking about range hoods, bathroom exhaust fans, air exchanger outlets and dryers so that they can operate at full capacity. It may also be time to replace them with newer, more efficient models. If these ducts are not cleaned properly, the appliances will have to work much harder for the same result and your bill will suffer.
If you think your pipes could use a good cleaning to do an effective job, don’t hesitate to contact professionals. They will be happy to do the work for you.
