When temperatures swing to extremes, whether it’s a multi-day freeze in January or triple-digit heat in August, your home’s energy use can change significantly, even if your daily habits stay the same.
During late January’s cold snap, many members experienced higher energy usage. Understandably, some were surprised. After all, if the thermostat was set at the same temperature, what changed?
The answer is simple: extreme weather makes your heating and cooling systems work much harder to maintain the temperature you’ve selected.
Why Cold Weather Increases Energy Use
When outdoor temperatures drop well below normal, your heating system has to run longer and more frequently to keep your home comfortable. The bigger the difference between the temperature outside and the temperature set on your thermostat, the harder your system must work. For many homes, especially those with heat pumps, extremely cold conditions may also trigger auxiliary or emergency heat. These backup heating elements use more electricity and can significantly increase energy consumption during prolonged cold periods.
Even if:
- You didn’t adjust your thermostat
- You weren’t home any more than usual
- You didn’t add new appliances
Your heating system likely ran more hours each day just to keep up.
The Same Is True in Summer
While winter’s cold snap is behind us, the same principle applies as we head into warmer months. When temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond, your air conditioner must work longer and harder to maintain indoor comfort. Extreme temperatures, hot or cold, naturally lead to higher energy usage because your HVAC system is your home’s largest energy user.
What You Can Do to Manage Energy Use
While we can’t control the weather, there are steps you can take to improve efficiency year-round:
- Adjust your thermostat by 2–3 degrees when possible.
- Replace or clean HVAC filters regularly to improve airflow.
- Seal drafts around doors and windows to prevent air loss.
- Ensure adequate insulation in attics and walls.
- Schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance to keep systems running efficiently.
- Use ceiling fans properly (clockwise in winter, counterclockwise in summer).
- Review your usage in the MyBEC app to track patterns month to month and year to year.
Small adjustments can make a noticeable difference over time.
Understanding Your Bill
If you ever have questions about your energy use, we encourage you to look beyond the total dollar amount and review the kilowatt-hours (kWh) used. Comparing usage, especially during extreme weather months, often provides helpful context. Our team is always available to help you understand your bill and explore ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
At Bandera Electric Cooperative, our goal is to keep you informed and empowered. Weather extremes are a part of life in Texas, but understanding how they impact your home’s energy use can help you plan ahead and stay in control year-round. If you have questions about your energy use, contact us anytime. We’re here to help!