As temperatures plummet, many Coloradans are noticing a spike in their electric bills. Xcel Energy explains that the cold weather affects the production and demand for natural gas, leading to higher prices and, consequently, higher bills.
Why Electric Bills Are Rising
According to Xcel, the colder weather increases the demand for natural gas, which is a primary source of energy for heating. This surge in demand, coupled with potential disruptions in production due to freezing conditions, drives up the cost of natural gas. As a result, customers may see a noticeable rise in their monthly energy expenses.
Tips to Reduce Your Heating Costs
Xcel Energy provides several practical suggestions to help residents manage their heating costs during the winter months:
- Lower the Thermostat: Set your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. If you have a programmable thermostat, schedule it to turn off or reduce heating when you’re not at home or while sleeping.
- Use Sunlight: Open blinds during the day to let natural sunlight warm your home. Close them at night to retain the heat.
- Ceiling Fans: Run ceiling fans clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling, making your home feel warmer.
- Open Interior Doors: Keeping interior doors open allows heat to circulate more efficiently throughout your home.
These simple adjustments can lead to significant savings over time.
Rebates and Energy-Efficiency Programs
In addition to these tips, Xcel offers several rebates and energy-efficiency programs designed to help customers save on their energy bills. These programs include discounts on energy-efficient appliances, home insulation improvements, and other measures that can reduce energy consumption.
By taking advantage of these programs and implementing the suggested tips, Coloradans can better manage their energy costs and stay warm during the winter months.