Heating Method Comparisons

Heat pumps and space heaters can be costly in cold weather

Both Ohio and Pennsylvania experienced severe cold in late January, as a surge of Arctic air pushed temperatures well below seasonal averages across the region. Many communities saw highs in the teens and overnight lows near or below zero, marking one of the coldest stretches of the winter. In some areas, temperatures approached long-standing records.

When temperatures drop this low, your heating system works harder to keep your apartment comfortable. The type of heating system you have plays a major role in how much energy you use throughout the winter.

Many apartments rely on electric heat pumps. Heat pumps are highly efficient in mild weather, particularly when outdoor temperatures are above 40°F. However, when temperatures fall below 30°F, some systems automatically switch to auxiliary or emergency heat. This backup setting uses electric resistance heating, which consumes significantly more electricity and can cause noticeable increases in your bill during extended cold snaps.

Want to better understand how heat pumps work and how cold weather affects your bill? Watch our short video.

What If I don’t have a heat pump?

Space heaters can also drive up energy use quickly. While they may feel convenient, they draw a large amount of electricity and are best reserved for short-term, small-area heating rather than heating your entire apartment. 

The chart below compares common heating types, their relative efficiency, and typical cost impact. Systems that rely heavily on electric resistance heat tend to be the most expensive to operate, while gas furnaces and heat pumps running in milder conditions are generally more cost-effective.

While you may not control the heating system in your building, you can control how it operates in your home. Setting your thermostat around 68°F when home and awake, lowering it slightly while sleeping or away, and avoiding large temperature increases can help manage energy use. 

Small adjustments throughout the season can make a meaningful difference in both comfort and cost.