Why Your Electricity Bill Is Higher in the Winter (Even If You Don’t Have Electric Heat)
Many homeowners in the Comox Valley are surprised to see their electricity bills spike in the winter months—even when their home uses gas or wood heat. So what gives?
At Eighty Eight Electric, we often get asked this question, and the answer comes down to a combination of seasonal habits, appliance usage, and lighting needs. Here's a breakdown of why your winter electricity bill might be higher—and what you can do about it.
1. More Time Indoors = More Power Use
In the winter, we naturally spend more time inside—especially during dark evenings and rainy weekends. That means:
Lights stay on longer
TVs, computers, and devices are used more frequently
Appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and laundry machines are running more often
Even small changes in behavior can significantly increase your overall electricity usage.
2. Lighting Costs Go Up
With shorter daylight hours, indoor lighting is needed earlier in the evening and later into the morning. If you're still using older incandescent or halogen bulbs, you're using more electricity than necessary.
✅ Solution:
Upgrade to LED lighting, which uses up to 80% less energy and lasts significantly longer.
3. Phantom Power Adds Up
During the colder months, people often leave devices plugged in and running:
Heated blankets
Gaming consoles
Computers and monitors
Space heaters (even for short periods)
Even when idle, many of these draw what’s called phantom power—electricity used by devices that are plugged in but not actively in use.
✅ Solution:
Use smart power strips or unplug devices when not needed..
4. Ventilation & Air Movement
Even if you heat with gas or wood, ventilation systems, furnace fans, and air exchangers rely on electricity to operate. In winter, these systems often run more frequently to keep air circulating and prevent moisture buildup.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes Make a Big Difference
Winter energy use can increase even without electric heat, but there are ways to keep it in check. If you're unsure where your energy is going, a home energy audit or electrical system review can help identify inefficiencies.
At Eighty Eight Electric, we help homeowners across the Comox Valley ensure they have a safe and efficient electrical system.
