Why did my usage increase? I didn’t touch my thermostat.
Impacts vary based on primary heating source, house size, type and age, as well as energy efficiency measures utilized.
- Heat Loss factor Increases as Temperatures Drop. It takes more energy to maintain a house at 70 degrees when the average temperature is 34 degrees outside; it takes even more energy if temperatures are colder than that. Especially when heat is lost at a higher rate through insulation, doors, windows and etc.
- Heat Pump Efficiency Decreases with Low Temperatures. At around 30 degrees, heat pumps reach a balance point and are supplemented by auxiliary heat, which increases energy usage.
- Additional Heaters Used. During cold spells it is common to put a portable heater in the well house or in the bathroom to prevent frozen pipes, or install a stock tank heater to avoid frozen water troughs.
Klickitat PUD has FREE weatherization kits available to help reduce heat loss. Swing by an office to pick one up.