As the temperature outside drops in the winter months, it is not uncommon for most households to experience a significant rise in their energy bills. According to a BC Hydro spokesperson Simi Heer, the average energy bill for a household can increase by up to 66 per cent in the winter season compared to other months.

So what causes this drastic hike in our energy bill? One obvious reason is the colder weather. “People use more electricity during the winter [for] home heating,” says Heer. “For an
electrically heated home, heating can account for up to 50 per cent of your electricity bill.”

Besides being colder, winter days are shorter as well and the reduced daylight hours means household lights are on for longer periods of time, increasing your energy consumption. So what can you do to reduce those astronomical bills? BC Hydro offers five simple steps to help cut back on those bills, while still ensuring your house remains bright and toasty all winter long.

Following these 5 simple steps mentioned here will help you significantly cut down on high winter energy bills and make your household more energy-efficient.  For more energy-saving tips and tools, visit BC Hydro’s website at bchydro.com