PORT CHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Winter has arrived. As the temperatures plunge, our energy bills rise. This year in particular, the price of oil and natural gas are higher than in past winters for a variety of reasons, including supply and demand.
Dan Singer, Co-President of Robison, a home comfort company in Port Chester, NY, said that his company has been advising its customers to take some measures to save on their home energy bills, among them better planning, and energy conservation.
"There are some things that our customers can do to reduce their energy bills,'' said Singer. "It's not perfect, but with a little extra effort, people can save money on home heating."
Among some of his recommendations were for consumers to ask their home energy companies if they offer budget plans that can equalize the payments over 12 months. That way customers don't get socked with much larger bills over the winter months. Also, some companies will offer to lock in or cap pricing.
"Price lock isn't always the right way to go," said Singer. "But price cap is better way to go. As the market comes down, the price will come down with it."
Singer noted that your local home heating company has very little to do with the price of natural gas and oil. "Supply and demand issues are driving up costs. This puts a lot of strain on our customers. We don't make the product. We don't have a well in the backyard — we have to buy it before we sell it.''
Energy conservation also plays a role: the less you use, the less you spend. Tips include:
- Setting your thermostat at the lowest temperature at which you are comfortable and safe. Each degree lower decreases heating costs.
- Properly sealing windows, insulating your home, programming your thermostat and making sure your equipment is tuned properly.
- Insulating hot-water pipes and warm-air ducts that pass through unheated areas. Clean or replace filters for your hot-air furnace and heat-pump.
- Swap out window shades seasonally. Light-colored window coverings reflect the sun's energy, while darker ones absorb it and release heat.
- Asking your local utility company for a free home energy audit
To learn more about energy conservation.
Some families, especially seniors, may be eligible for home heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or other state and county programs. Both federal and state energy assistance programs are available to heating oil consumers who have limited budgets.
And if all else fails, its only six months till the summer cooling season.
Media Contact
dean Bender, Thompson & Bender, 9147621900, [email protected]
SOURCE Robison
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