The costs associated with electric heating in the winter in Quebec

Heating is one of the most important elements in Quebec and in all of Canada in winter. With temperatures dropping considerably during this period, it is essential to have a good heating system to keep you warm. Electric heating remains one of the most popular types of heating in Quebec today, because it is both economical and ecological. But this system generates different costs that you must take into account. Find out about them and the factors that affect electric heating costs.

Factors affecting the cost of electric heating in Quebec

– The size of the house

It is obvious that the cost of heating will be different for a house with 4 rooms and another one with 10 rooms in total. A small area to be heated will be more economical than a larger one. A larger home will also require a larger heating system, with more heating elements.

– The quality of insulation of the house

A poorly insulated house will also cause you to spend more on energy consumption. This is because heat loss puts more strain on your heating equipment, which takes longer to heat your home. A well-insulated house, on the other hand, will be heated more quickly with less energy.

– The type of device

The type of device you choose to heat your home will also affect your costs. If you choose portable electric heaters, you will need them for every room. The purchase price will be more expensive and these devices consume more electricity.

On the other hand, you will be able to better control their use and energy expenses, since you will only have to turn on those in the rooms where you are. The heat pump is more expensive to purchase and install, but it is very economical and efficient.

– Electricity rates applied

Hydro-Québec is the main supplier of electricity in Québec. There are different packages you can choose from depending on your needs. By choosing the package that best suits your consumption, you can save on your heating bills.

– Consumption habits

Your consumption habits also play an essential role in the evolution of your electric heating costs. For example, your expenses will be different if you run your heaters 24 hours a day than if you turn them on only when you are home.

The main costs related to electric heating

– The cost of acquiring the equipment

The first cost that will be charged to you is the acquisition of the equipment. Be aware that there are different types of electric heaters, and each has a different purchase cost. For example, a portable heater is very affordable, but you’ll need to buy several to heat your entire house. A heat pump is more expensive.

– The cost of installation

The cost of installation is also a consideration. It also varies depending on the type of heater you purchase. A portable heater is very easy to install and requires no additional cost. On the other hand, a heat pump will have a more expensive installation cost because of the complexity of the system. You may even need to hire a professional to do the work and installation.

– The cost of maintenance and repair

A heating appliance generally requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal longevity. You will need to plan for this at least once a year, including cleaning of the various components of the unit and replacement of defective parts.

– The cost of consumption

Finally, the most obvious cost when using an electric heater is the cost associated with your energy consumption. It depends on several factors such as the duration of operation of the devices, their power, and many other criteria.

How to optimize your consumption and reduce the costs related to electric heating?

If you don’t control the use of your electric heaters, your electricity bills can quickly escalate. In order to limit your expenses as much as possible, here are some simple tips and tricks to apply on a daily basis:

– Check the insulation of your home

A poorly insulated house is the enemy of your heating system. The heat produced escapes through places where the insulation is poor (windows, doors, walls, ceiling…). As a result, your heaters will run longer to maintain the proper temperature in your home. By solving your insulation problems, you not only help reduce your electricity consumption, but you also optimize the life of your heating equipment.

– Change your consumption habits

By changing your consumption habits, you can reduce your heating energy bills. For example, always close doors and windows before turning on the heating system. This will prevent heat loss and optimize the operation of heating appliances while minimizing electricity costs.

Also, it is advisable to turn on the heating only in the rooms that are most frequently occupied. If the guest rooms are not occupied, there is no need to turn on the heating in these rooms.

– Heating the house to the right temperature

Avoid overheating your home. This will only increase your electricity bills, but it could also have a negative impact on your health. Ideally, living rooms should be heated to 19°C and bedrooms to 17°C.

– Regularly clean heating appliances

Don’t neglect the cleaning and maintenance of your heating appliances. This is the best way to ensure their optimal functioning and longevity. Although there are costs involved, you will save money with fully operational equipment.

– Turning off the heat for an extended absence

If you are planning a vacation or will be away from home for several days at a time, it is a good idea to turn off the heaters to avoid wasting energy unnecessarily. If you opt for connected devices, you can then program them to turn on just before you return.