Heating costs on the rise due to inflation

 

ST JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- With inflation driving up the costs of just about everything, the cost to heat your home this winter is no exception.

The U.S. saw a period of extreme cold last month, which was leveled out by warmer temperatures this month, allowing natural gas prices to rebalance to levels we last saw in December of 2021.

But continued inflation means consumers will see an increase in energy bills for this winter.

Joshauna Nash is with NIPSCO, the largest natural gas and electric provider in Northern Indiana.

She tells us despite rising costs, there are steps you can take to lower your energy bill like turning your thermostat down, even if it means making a sacrifice or two.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration, or EIA, released details about average consumer prices for heating fuels during the winter.

Here in the Midwest, you can expect a 27.1% increase in the price for natural gas.

The good news though is data from the EIA shows that natural gas prices are coming back down, which will help companies like NIPSCO lower prices for their customers.

A couple other things you can do to lower your energy bills this winter are check for drafts near doors or windows and get those sealed up, and make sure your vents aren't covered up to ensure proper air flow in your home.