In addition, weather experts predict that normal winter weather will return to the U.S. this year. Combined, these factors will ultimately lead to significantly higher heating bills. Since the early part of 2000, wholesale market pricing for natural gas has risen dramatically, forcing natural gas distribution companies across the U.S. and Canada to increase gas costs. While natural gas exploration has increased, there is an approximately 6 to 18-month time lag before it affects wholesale market pricing. In last week's winter weather outlook update, NOAA announced that recent blasts of cold air are a preview of what the nation can expect for the rest of the season.
Weather is a factor that dramatically impacts natural gas bills.
When temperatures drop, customers use more fuel to heat their homes and businesses and energy conservation becomes very important. However, consumers can take easy, inexpensive steps to reduce household energy consumption and minimize energy loss. While sleeping, add an extra blanket for warmth. Bear in mind that warmer temperatures are recommended for homes with ill or elderly persons or infants. Because warm air rises, use registers to direct warm air-flow across the floor.