While South Texas winters are generally mild, cold fronts and winter storms can cause significant spikes in energy use. During extreme cold events, heating demand can strain the power grid. These tips will help you stay warm safely and efficiently.
typical cold front temperatures
energy use during cold snaps
highest morning heating demand
Thermostat Settings
The Department of Energy recommends these winter thermostat settings:
Heat Pump Considerations
If you have a heat pump:
- Don't drastically adjust temperatures - heat pumps work best with gradual changes
- Avoid using "Emergency Heat" unless necessary - it's much more expensive
- Set it and leave it - constant adjustments reduce efficiency
- Auxiliary/backup heat will activate automatically when needed during extreme cold
Preparing Your Home for Cold Weather
Before cold weather arrives, take these steps to improve efficiency:
Seal Air Leaks
Check windows, doors, and outlets for drafts. Apply weatherstripping and caulk gaps to keep warm air inside.
Check Insulation
Ensure your attic has adequate insulation (R-38 or higher). Add insulation to walls and floors if possible.
Service Your Heating System
Have your furnace or heat pump inspected and serviced before the heating season begins.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Set fans to clockwise rotation on low speed to push warm air down from the ceiling.
Heating Safely
Winter weather can create safety hazards. Follow these guidelines:
Never Use These for Heating
- Gas ovens or stovetops (carbon monoxide risk)
- Outdoor grills or generators indoors
- Unvented gas heaters
- Multiple space heaters on the same circuit
Maximizing Your Home's Warmth
Use Sunlight to Your Advantage
The sun is a free heat source:
- Open south-facing curtains during the day to let sunlight warm your home
- Close curtains at night to insulate against cold windows
- Consider insulated or thermal curtains for additional energy savings
- Clear obstructions from south-facing windows to maximize solar gain
Reduce Drafts
Even small air leaks can significantly increase heating costs:
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors
- Apply weatherstripping around doors and windows
- Use outlet gaskets on exterior wall outlets
- Seal around pipes and wires where they enter the house
- Close fireplace dampers when not in use
- Consider a chimney balloon to prevent heat loss
Zone Heating
Focus heating on the rooms you use most:
- Close doors and vents to unused rooms
- Use space heaters carefully to supplement heating in occupied rooms
- Keep interior doors open between heated rooms for air circulation
- Lower the thermostat and use extra blankets at night
Water Heater Efficiency
Water heating accounts for 12-18% of your energy bill:
- Lower the temperature to 120°F (most are factory-set at 140°F)
- Insulate the tank with a water heater blanket (for older units)
- Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss
- Fix dripping faucets - hot water leaks waste energy
- Take shorter showers to reduce hot water demand
During Extreme Cold Events
Winter storms and extreme cold can strain the Texas power grid. ERCOT may issue conservation appeals during these events.
Prepare Before a Winter Storm
- Stock emergency supplies: Flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food
- Charge devices: Phones, laptops, and battery packs
- Know your pipes: Learn how to shut off water if pipes freeze
- Fill prescriptions: Ensure you have needed medications
- Fuel up vehicles: Gas stations may lose power
Protecting Pipes from Freezing
Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive damage. When temperatures drop below freezing:
Let Faucets Drip
A slow drip from faucets served by exposed pipes prevents freezing. Even a trickle helps.
Open Cabinet Doors
Allow warm air to reach pipes under sinks, especially on exterior walls.
Keep Heat On
Maintain at least 55°F even if you're away. The cost is far less than repairing burst pipes.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use pipe insulation or heat tape on pipes in unheated areas like garages and crawl spaces.
If Pipes Freeze
- Keep the faucet open - as ice melts, water needs to flow
- Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or heating pad
- Never use an open flame
- If you can't locate the freeze or it doesn't thaw, call a plumber
- If a pipe bursts, shut off the main water supply immediately
Humidity & Comfort
Dry winter air can make your home feel colder than it is:
- Use a humidifier to maintain 30-50% humidity
- Humid air feels warmer allowing you to lower the thermostat
- Houseplants add humidity naturally
- Don't over-humidify - excess moisture can cause mold and condensation
Prepare Your Home
BPUB offers rebates on insulation, HVAC upgrades, and other improvements that keep you comfortable year-round.
Additional Resources
- ENERGY STAR Heating Tips - EPA guidance on efficient heating
- Department of Energy - Winter Savings - Federal winter conservation tips
- Ready.gov - Winter Weather - FEMA emergency preparedness
- ERCOT Winter Preparedness - Texas grid information and alerts
- Texas Division of Emergency Management - State emergency resources