How to take control of your home's winter heating bill
Understand and monitor your winter energy use
Winter heating can account for about 50% of your monthly energy bill, which is why your costs are higher during the coldest months of the year. No matter how you heat your home, understanding what's behind your bill is the first step to saving more.
Review energy use over time
Compare your energy use month to month and see how temperature changes affect your energy needs.
See electric use by the hour
Download the DTE Insight app to see your home’s electric use and find ways to reduce your winter electric bill.
What's driving your high winter costs
Did you know? Space heaters use a lot of electricity. To use them safely and efficiently, close doors to contain heat and power it off when you leave the room.
Need help with your bill?
The impact of a high winter energy bill can be stressful, but we can help.
Find payment assistance
Having trouble paying your bill? Your income may qualify you for a fixed monthly payment.
Pay off past-due balance
A payment agreement lets you pay what you owe in monthly installments with no late fees.
Simplify how you pay
Explore programs that help you stay on top of your monthly payments and avoid late fees.
If you are experiencing an issue or are dissatisfied with your service, please submit your concern and someone from our team will follow up.
More ways to manage your costs
Earn energy rebates
Rebates for insulation, thermostats, windows and more can help you save energy and money. Available for electric and gas customers.
Know your gas options
Michiganders may choose the natural gas supplier that best fits their needs or take no action and DTE will continue to supply their gas with a regulated rate.
Explore electric rates
Your electric rate can impact how you’re billed throughout the year. Compare available Time of Day rate plans to find the one that best fits your household energy habits.
Explore winter energy-saving tips
Watch our energy savings playlist for simple ways to cut yoru heating costs this winter.
Keeping you safe is our top priority
Know what to do and what to watch for so you can keep your home safe all winter long.
Gas leaks
Smell or suspect a gas leak? Leave immediately. Call 911 and then call our Gas Leak Hotline at (800) 947-5000. This is a free service, available 24/7.
Carbon monoxide
If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, leave immediately and get into fresh air. Call 911 and seek medical help if necessary.
Space heaters
Using a space heater? Keep it at least three feet from anything flammable and never leave it running unattended.
Frequently asked questions about winter energy bills
Weather is the biggest factor. Even a small drop in temperature makes your heating system work harder and use more energy. Your billing periods can also range from 26 to 35 days so a longer cycle means more days of usage on your bills. The Bill Analyzer tool can help you break down exactly what's driving your bill each month.
Each charge on your bill covers a specific part of getting energy to your home. The charges you see depend on whether you have gas service, electric service or both. For a full breakdown of what each line item means, visit our Understanding Your Statement page.
If you're struggling to pay your bill, you may qualify for income-based energy assistance programs. These programs can help cover costs and keep your service on. Learn more about low-income programs to find out what you qualify for.
Yes. We offer billing programs and payment options that can help you stay on top of your bill. Visit our payment programs page to find out which options are right for you.
Winter weather increases your energy use because your heating system runs more often to keep you comfortable. Heating can account for about 50% of your monthly bill during the coldest months. The Bill Analyzer tool can help you see where your usage is highest.
Start small. Setting your thermostat to a lower temperature when you're away or asleep can make a real difference. Sealing drafts around windows and doors helps your heating equipment work less to keep you warm. For bigger savings, look into energy efficient furnace options and DTE rebates to help offset the cost. Take our home energy assessment to get personalized tips for your home.