How to Cut that Sky-High Gas Bill in Texas: Smart Ways to Keep More Cash in Your Pockets
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How to Cut That Sky-High Gas Bill in Texas: Smart Ways to Keep More Cash in Your Pockets
In Texas, we all know all too well that the weather simply has a mind of its own. It can be sunny and humid one day, then frigid the next (you gotta love Texas!). And when a winter cold snap hits, those of y'all with gas heating can feel the pain in your gas bills. Let's dive into some simple, effective ways to keep your gas bill wrangled in year-round.
There are really two main reasons your gas bills can go up and might seem a tad inconsistent from time to time:
1. You're crankin' the heat in the winters – Texas winters may not be as brutal as up north, but let’s be honest—when that first cold front rolls in, most of us aren’t built for it. More heating means more gas usage, and that adds up real quick.
2. Gas prices tend to play the market – Just like anything else, gas prices bounce up and down, and when winter hits, demand skyrockets. That means higher prices for everyone, and our bill takes the hit. Simple supply and demand.
Why We Should Care About High Gas Bills
Spending a small fortune just to keep from turning into an ice cube doesn’t sit right with us. Here are a few simple ways to keep that bill in check.
1. Get Yourself a Smart Thermostat
If you haven’t upgraded to a smart thermostat yet, now’s the time. These handy gadgets learn your schedule and adjust the heat accordingly, so you aren't burning energy when you don't need to. Setting it to lower the temp when you're not home is also a no-brainer to save some moola. Dropping your thermostat by 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can save us up to 10% a year on heating costs.
2. Stop Letting Your Warm Air Slip Away
A drafty house is like a leaky bucket—you're just wasting what you're paying for. Fix those gaps around windows and doors, and immediately feel the difference in your home, and your wallet.
Put weatherstripping around doors and windows to keep that chilly air outside where it belongs.
Hang up some thermal curtains—good for keeping heat in during the winter and blocking out that Texas sun come summer.
Use draft stoppers at the bottom of doors so you're not heating the whole neighborhood.
3. Beef Up Insulation
Insulation might not be the most exciting thing to spend money on, but it’s worth it. A well-insulated house holds heat better, meaning your heater doesn’t have to work overtime.
4. Give Your Heating System Some TLC
Your heater works hard in the winter, so let’s not let it struggle more than it has to. Keeping it in tip-top shape means it’ll run smoother and use less gas.
Change that furnace filter regularly—dirty filters make your system work harder and burn more gas.
Get a professional to check it out once a year—kinda like a check-up for your house.
If your heater is ancient, consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model.
5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Your old water heater, stove, and dryer could be burning through gas like there’s no tomorrow. If they’re outdated, consider swapping them for Energy Star-rated models that use less gas to operate. Yes, it’s an investment, but over time, the savings make it worth your while.
6. Use Space Heaters (But Don’t Go Overboard)
Instead of heating your whole house, use a space heater to warm up just the room you're in. Just make sure to follow safety guidelines—nobody wants to trade a high gas bill for a fire hazard.
7. Cut Down on Hot Water Usage
Heating water can increase your gas bill, so try to use less when you can. Shorten those showers, wash clothes in cold water, and turn your water heater down a few degrees. Dropping it by just 10°F can save us around 3-5% on your bill.
Are There Any Government Programs That Help With Energy Bills in Texas?
You might also want to check into government assistance programs like LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program), which can help eligible Texans with their heating and cooling costs. Local utility companies sometimes offer bill assistance and efficiency rebates, too.
Take Charge of Your Gas Bill, Texas Style
A high gas bill doesn’t have to be part of your winter routine. With a little effort and a few smart changes—like upgrading your thermostat, sealing up drafts, and keeping your heater in good shape—you can keep your home warm without spending a fortune.