If you are a City of Senatobia natural gas customer, you can expect to pay more this winter to heat your home.
The company supplying Senatobia with natural gas notified city officials a few weeks ago of rising prices which means consumers will likely see a higher-than-normal bill over the next few months.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration recently released a report forecasting U.S. households that primarily use natural gas for space heating will spend an average of $746 on heating this winter (October–March), which is $172, or 30%, more than last year.
Natural gas is the primary heating fuel for 48% of U.S. homes, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 American Community Survey. Residential spending on winter natural gas bills is largely determined by the retail price of natural gas and the amount of natural gas consumed.
Higher retail natural gas prices are the primary driver for the expected increase in natural gas heating expenditures this winter. On average, retail natural gas prices in the United States are expected to rise from $10.17 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf) last winter to $12.93/Mcf this winter, the highest price since the 2005-06 winter average.
Whether you use natural gas to heat your home or simply for a few appliances around the house, there are many ways you can conserve and save on your winter utility bill. Implementing some of these tips now can help your household adjust before cold weather arrives.
Adjust and insulate the water heater.
The ideal temperature for your water heater is 125 degrees. Wrapping water heaters with proper insulating jackets and insulating plumbing can also help.
Wash cold.
Whenever possible, use the cold water setting on your washing machine.
Install a smart thermostat.
Smart thermostats allow you to adjust and control temperatures to fit your comfort and lifestyle while reducing your energy bill.
Add insulation to your home.
If your home has inadequate insulation, the hot air your natural gas heating system supplies will escape through cracks, doors, windows, and even the attic and garage. Addressing your home’s insulation can help bring your bill down.
Seal it up.
Check for leaks around doors, windows, and other openings to the outside. Seal those leaks with caulk or weatherstripping to help keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
