Warning : You Could Have High Heating Bills This Winter
By: Import User
Updated: January 7, 2009
The Arkansas Public Service Commission is
cautioning consumers that natural gas prices are 40 percent higher
than a year ago, meaning heating bills will be higher than last
winter.
The PSC regulates natural gas utilities, but the price for the
natural gas itself is determined on the open market and passed on
to consumers.
The panel advises that a cold winter could drive prices even
higher as weather, availability and economic activity can all
affect wholesale prices.
The PSC has taken steps to try to keep natural gas prices from
spiking during volatile times in the market, but higher costs will
still have to be paid by consumers.
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The commission recommends that customers adopt a method of
payment that averages monthly bills, giving consumers a relatively
consistent bill each month.
The panel says customers can save money by adding insulation,
making sure heating systems are tuned up and that filters are
changed regularly. Also, sealing leaks along windows and doors
keeps costs down, as does keeping fireplace dampers closed when not
in use.
