If you’re renting or owning an apartment in Shallotte, NC, you’ve probably wondered how much does heating cost in an apartment—especially as winter approaches. Heating costs can vary widely depending on the type of system installed, the size and insulation of your unit, your usage habits, and local energy rates. Understanding these factors can help you budget better and make smart decisions to keep your apartment warm without overspending. At Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC, we specialize in helping Shallotte residents find energy-efficient heating solutions that balance comfort and cost.
Average Heating Costs for Apartments in Shallotte
On average, Shallotte residents can expect heating costs for an apartment to range between $80 and $180 per month during the colder months. However, this figure can vary significantly based on the following:
- Type of heating system (electric, gas, or heat pump)
- Size and insulation quality of your apartment
- Temperature settings and usage habits
- Local energy rates from Duke Energy and other providers
Because Shallotte has a mild coastal climate, heating demands are lower than in northern regions. Most residents use heat pumps or electric furnaces, which are efficient for mild winters.
Let’s break down how these factors affect your heating bill and what you can do to lower it.
1. Type of Heating System
The kind of system your apartment uses plays the biggest role in your monthly costs.
Electric Heating Systems
Many Shallotte apartments use electric baseboard heaters or central systems powered by electricity. While these are simple to install and maintain, electricity tends to be more expensive than natural gas. The average cost per month can range from $120–$180, depending on apartment size and efficiency.
Gas Furnaces
If your apartment complex has access to natural gas, your heating bills will likely be lower. Gas furnaces produce heat more efficiently than electric systems and can cost around $70–$120 per month during the winter.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient heating systems available—perfect for Shallotte’s mild winters. They work by transferring heat rather than generating it, which significantly cuts energy use. Apartments using modern heat pumps might see monthly heating bills between $60–$100.
At Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC, we often recommend heat pumps for Shallotte residents because they provide both heating and cooling in one system, saving money year-round.
2. Apartment Size and Layout
The size and layout of your apartment have a direct impact on heating costs.
- Small studio or 1-bedroom apartments (under 800 sq ft): Expect to pay between $60–$100 per month for heating.
- Medium-sized apartments (800–1,200 sq ft): Average around $100–$150 per month.
- Larger apartments (1,200+ sq ft): May see costs between $150–$200 per month, depending on insulation and system efficiency.
Open floor plans can also influence heating performance. While open layouts improve air circulation, they may require more energy to heat large spaces evenly—especially if the system isn’t zoned properly.
3. Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Even the best heating system can waste energy if your apartment isn’t well insulated. Heat easily escapes through old windows, thin walls, or poorly sealed doors.
Here’s how insulation affects your heating cost:
- Newer apartments (built within the last 10–15 years): Usually have good insulation, double-pane windows, and energy-efficient HVAC systems. These units typically cost less to heat—around $80–$120 per month.
- Older apartments: Often lack modern insulation and may rely on inefficient systems. Monthly costs can climb to $150–$200, especially if drafts and leaks go unaddressed.
If your apartment feels drafty, you can take simple steps to improve efficiency:
- Use weatherstripping around doors and windows
- Add thermal curtains to retain heat.
- Keep interior doors closed to trap warm air.
- Place draft stoppers at the base of doors.
Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC also offers energy audits and efficiency assessments to identify where heat loss is occurring and how to fix it affordably.
4. Thermostat Settings and Usage Habits
Your thermostat habits can make or break your heating budget. The Department of Energy recommends keeping your thermostat at 68°F during the day and lowering it slightly when you’re asleep or away.
For every degree you lower the temperature, you can save about 3–5% on heating costs. Using a programmable thermostat or smart thermostat can help automate these savings.
Some energy-saving tips:
- Dress in layers indoors instead of turning up the heat.
- Lower the thermostat when you’re not home.
- Use ceiling fans on low reverse mode to circulate warm air.
- Schedule regular maintenance to ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently.
At Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC, we recommend smart thermostats that learn your schedule and adjust automatically to maintain comfort without wasting energy.
5. Energy Provider and Seasonal Rates
Energy prices fluctuate throughout the year. Shallotte’s electricity rates typically range between 12–14 cents per kWh, while natural gas averages around $1.20 per therm.
If your apartment uses electric heating, expect higher bills during winter when energy usage peaks. Many utility companies, like Duke Energy, offer budget billing programs that spread out your costs evenly across the year, preventing high seasonal spikes.
Additionally, some apartment complexes include heating costs in rent or charge a flat utility fee. If so, ask your landlord what’s included and whether the system is individually metered or shared among tenants.
6. Maintenance and HVAC Condition
A neglected HVAC system can drive up heating costs by 20% or more. Dirty filters, worn-out components, and blocked vents make your system work harder than necessary.
Routine maintenance can help prevent costly energy waste. Here’s what you should do:
- Replace or clean air filters every 1–3 months.
- Keep vents clear of furniture and dust.
- Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up at least once a year.
- Ensure that the thermostat and sensors are working properly.
Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC offers affordable maintenance plans to help Shallotte apartment residents keep their heating systems running efficiently all winter long.
7. Renewable and Supplemental Heating Options
If you want to lower costs further, consider supplemental or renewable heating options:
- Space heaters: Useful for heating one room but should be used safely and sparingly, as they can increase electricity bills if overused.
- Infrared panels or radiant heating: Offer targeted warmth and can be efficient for small spaces.
- Mini-split heat pumps: Great for apartments without ductwork and can significantly reduce long-term costs.
At Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC, we specialize in ductless mini-split installation, ideal for smaller apartments seeking precise comfort control and lower energy consumption.
8. Estimating Your Total Annual Heating Cost
To estimate your total annual heating cost, multiply your average monthly bill by the number of heating months (typically 4–5 months in Shallotte).
For example:
- Efficient 1-bedroom apartment: $80 × 4 = $320/year
- Mid-size 2-bedroom apartment: $120 × 4 = $480/year
- Large apartment with older system: $160 × 4 = $640/year
These numbers assume moderate use and average energy rates. If your bills are much higher, your system may need maintenance or an upgrade.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does heating cost in an apartment in Shallotte? While the average monthly expense ranges from $80 to $180, the actual cost depends on your heating system, insulation, and personal habits. The good news is that Shallotte’s mild winters make it easy to stay warm without breaking the bank—especially with an efficient system from Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC.
If you’re looking to reduce your heating costs, improve comfort, or upgrade your HVAC system, our local experts can help. Contact Brunswick Isles HVAC LLC today for energy-saving solutions, expert installations, and professional maintenance that keeps your apartment comfortable all year long.
