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“The first thing I do is think layers. Both on you and the house.”
Photo Credit: iStock
A renter in a 325-square-foot unit said persistent snow and frigid temperatures pushed monthly power costs as high as $500 last winter. 
In an effort to avoid a repeat of those sky-high utility bills, the renter turned to the internet for advice about how they and their pet cat could stay warm during cold months while saving money on heating costs.
“My average monthly bill ranged from $350-$500,” the renter wrote. “I want to do all that I can now to avoid that happening again.” 
Posting to Reddit’s r/frugal forum, the original poster said that they kept their rental home at 68 degrees using the unit’s electric baseboard heater. Their electricity costs about $0.15 per kilowatt-hour. 
The renter further explained that, to help keep the heat in and the cold out, they already hang blankets over the windows and use a draft stopper at the front door.
As the OP has learned the hard way, resistance heat can be especially expensive during extended cold snaps, even in a very small space. This is because every hour the system runs adds directly to the monthly power bill.
For homeowners dealing with similarly shocking winter-heating bills, upgrading heating and cooling equipment is often one of the most effective ways to cut utility costs and protect against rising energy prices. Palmetto can help homeowners understand their HVAC options and slash their energy bills through its Comfort Plan network, which connects customers with vetted installers.
As for the OP, because they are a renter, their options are much more limited. 
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As a result, much of the commenters’ advice focused on inexpensive renter-friendly steps, including dressing more warmly indoors, adding rugs to cover the floor, looking for air leaks around the windows, and using heavier curtains.
As one commenter put it: “The first thing I do is think layers. Both on you and the house.” 
Some commenters emphasized that insulated curtains would likely work better than blankets in preventing heat loss through the rental unit’s windows.
“Heavy insulated curtains is a good first step,” wrote one commenter. “Close in the night, open during the day if you get enough sun to heat things up. They work better than blankets in my experience.”
The renter further explained that their couch sits in front of the unit’s baseboard heaters. While the unit’s small size means there’s nowhere else for the couch to go, the OP acknowledged that this setup is less than ideal because it could be reducing airflow and making the heat less effective at warming their home.
The OP also noted that their pet cat remains home during the day, which limits the renter’s ability to simply turn off the heat when they are away. 
Some users suggested cat-friendly ways to cut back on heating without leaving the pet cold.
“60F + is still reasonable temp for the cat,” said one commenter.
Others recommended using a heated pet bed. The renter replied that their cat already uses a small heating pad with an automatic shutoff timer.
For renters, small, simple steps can add up. Warm people and pets directly with layered clothing, blankets, and heated bedding. Let in sunlight during the day, close insulated curtains at night, seal drafts, and move furniture away from baseboards when possible. 
Additionally, some utility companies offer level-pay or budget billing plans, which can make winter heating costs more manageable by spreading them throughout the year.
For homeowners, more options are available, with better equipment often delivering more savings on utility costs. Palmetto’s Comfort Plan includes $0 down options that can lower heating and cooling costs by up to 50% while providing 12 years of free maintenance.
Going further, pairing solar panels with electric appliances such as efficient HVAC systems can drive bills even lower. EnergySage makes it easy to find the best solar system and installer for your home and budget, with potential savings of up to $10,000 on installations.
As for the OP, they are simply looking out for any small fixes that could make a difference once the cold weather returns. 
“I just want to know if there’s anything I can do now that might help prepare for winter months before the bills hit,” they wrote. 
These articles look at renter electricity savings, thermostat settings, winter heating habits, radiator tricks, and door weatherstripping.
• Across the United States, renters can cut bills with draft blocking and peak hour habits.
• HVAC experts say common thermostat habits can quietly drive up winter electricity costs.
• Energy pros recommend small winter thermostat tweaks to keep homes warm affordably.
• HVAC pros say foil behind radiators may change how efficiently rooms hold heat.
• Homeowners found front door weatherstripping gaps can send heating bills climbing in winter.
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© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.

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