Understanding Your Heating Bill - How to Save Money as a Tenant

As a tenant, heating bills can quickly become a significant expense. Luckily, there are several easy ways to manage your heating usage and save money. Here's your complete guide to optimizing heating consumption in your rental property.

Understanding Your Heating Bill

The first step to saving money on heating is understanding how your bill is structured. Typically, a heating bill includes:

  • Advance payments (estimated usage)
  • Annual heating consumption (actual usage)
  • Fees and taxes

What Does "Advance Heating Payment" Mean?

"Advance" means that you pay a fixed monthly amount based on estimated consumption. At the end of the year, actual usage is calculated, and you will either get a refund or owe additional payment.

5 Easy Tips to Reduce Your Heating Bill

1. Maintain a Stable Temperature

A constant temperature of 20-21°C is ideal. Frequently adjusting temperatures uses more energy.

2. Efficiently Use Your Radiators

  • Keep radiators clear of furniture and curtains.
  • Use thermostats properly – set them evenly across all rooms.

3. Ventilate Your Home Properly

  • Briefly ventilate several times a day (5-10 minutes).
  • Turn off radiators while airing rooms.

4. Avoid Heat Loss

  • Use sealing strips around windows and doors to prevent drafts.
  • Pull down curtains or blinds at night to insulate rooms.

5. Regularly Monitor Your Usage

Read your heating meter regularly to adjust your usage and avoid unexpected bills.

What If Your Heating Bill Is Too High?

  • Contact your landlord if you suspect faulty installations.
  • Consider asking an energy advisor or caretaker to inspect your home.
  • Check that radiators and meters are functioning properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Dispute My Heating Bill?

Start by contacting your landlord or housing association. If you can't agree, you can escalate the issue to the Rent Tribunal (Huslejenævnet).

Can I Choose My Own Heating Supplier?

No, as a tenant, you are typically bound to the building's common heating supply.

What Happens If I Don't Pay My Heating Bill?

You risk debt collection proceedings or eviction from your rental, so always pay on time.

Published / updated: 17th of april 2025