How Much Does Heating Add to the Monthly Bills?

With the cold winter months in full force, you may be wondering how much money using the heat in your apartment will add to your monthly utility bills. While this amount can vary based on where you live, the type of energy consumed (gas, electric, etc.), and what your lease says, renters spend an average of $150 to $200+ per month in heating and cooling costs. If you’re wanting to learn more about the average monthly cost of utilities for an apartment and tips to save money on heating bills this winter, keep reading.

What Are the Average Individual Costs of Utilities?

The average cost of utilities can vary from place to place, but on average, you can expect to pay around $175 to $250 per month in utility bills. This estimate includes the basic utilities - electricity, gas/fuel, and water.

Heating

Your bill for heating will vary from place to place. Typically, you do not receive a separate bill for heating. Instead, it will either be tacked on to the rent or it will be included in your electric or gas bill. If you have gas heat, the average monthly cost to heat your apartment during the winter ranges from $50 to $150.

Electricity

Regardless of your location, your apartment will use at least some electricity. When you’re going about your day, it’s very easy to forget to turn your light or television off. And if you’re not careful, this bill can add up quickly! Monthly electric bills vary depending on how much electricity you use and the number of people living in your apartment, but it typically averages between $100 to $150.

Gas

Although you may not think much about your gas bill, it is important as many of your apartment’s appliances may run on gas. Make sure to ask which appliances run on gas versus electric and what type of gas is used. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 for your monthly gas bill.

Water

Another essential utility for your apartment is water. Unless you are someone who uses an outrageous amount of water doing dishes or in the shower, water bills are relatively affordable. Generally, the monthly water bill for an apartment will cost between $40 and $60.

Additional Utilities

Additional utilities that you will also want to include in your budget include things such as internet and cable. The Internet, on average, runs approximately $30 to $60, depending on location and service provider. If you choose to have cable in your apartment, this will add around $50 to your monthly bills.

What Factors Impact How Much I Will Pay?

There are several factors that can impact your monthly utility bills, including the following: 

• The size of your apartment
• The number of occupants
• The amount of time spent at home vs out and about
• The number of windows and doors in your apartment (over 20% of energy loss is a result of leaky windows and doors)
• The number of appliances that run on electricity
• The type of materials and insulation used in your apartment building

Tips for Saving on High Heating Bills This Winter

With the cost of heating continuously rising, you are probably looking for ways to help lower the cost of your monthly heating bills this winter. Nearly half of Americans use natural gas to heat their homes, which has had a price increase of nearly 25% since just last winter. To save money on your utility bills this winter, try out some of the following tips and tricks:

Schedule a Checkup for Your Heating System

One of the first things that you should do is schedule a professional to come do a routine checkup for your home’s heating system. If your heating system is clogged with dirt or debris, this can reduce airflow, which can lead to further damaging the system. If you are in need of a tuneup, on average, it will cost around $200 or more. 

Make Sure to Seal Any Air Leaks

If your home tends to be drafty around windows and doors, especially in your home’s attic or basement, this can cause your home to be much colder than it should be this winter. If you notice small gaps in the doors or windows, use caulking, weather stripping, or spray foam to fill them. 

If your home has a lot of windows, especially old windows, you may be losing energy through the glass. Try using clear plastic wrap or a window insulation shrink kit to help fix the issue. 

How Should I Avoid Frozen Pipes This Winter?

In order to avoid frozen pipes causing expensive damage in your home this winter, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association recommends not setting your thermostat lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. On average, repairing damage from frozen pipes that have burst costs anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. 

What is the Best Thermostat Setting To Save Money?

According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, the best thermostat setting to save money during the winter is around 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime and lower while you are asleep or away from home.