Gas and electricity bills are often criticized as being too complicated to calculate.

 This may be the reason why the majority of people using them pay too much more than they have to. The problem is that they only find it out when bills are ruining their account in bank.

BE AWARE OF INFORMATION ON THE BILL

Every bill has a reference or account number that is vital if you want to query about it. The piece of paper will inform you of the period showing dates the bill is related to. Other important info such as the last payment you have made, the VAT excluded and its real amount can also be checked out as well as additional charges. Look at your gas account and be sure that you are legally charged of the amount of money. If you check that the actual usage is less than you have already paid, asking for a refund may be necessary. Another option is also to call on adviser and help online. There, you will get encouraged to read your own meters and input the figures. If you are careful enough, you will discover if you pay less or more than indicated by the meter.

REDUCE APPLIANCES’ GAS CONSUMPTION

During cold weather, consumption is 97 percent higher than during summer. Two appliances are considered as the largest natural gas consuming by experts: the furnace and the water heater. The furnace enters in the first place which makes up about 70 percent of the gas bill. Lowering the thermostat to 68 degrees when home and 65 degrees when away can save you up to 10 percent a year on heating costs. A programmable thermostat can automatically control heat usage.
Concerning the water heater, you can save 15 percent on its cost if you set its temperature at 120 degrees, install an insulator blanket around the tank and insulating pipes. There are other appliances that can lower gas consumption. Try to run the dish washer, washing machine and gas dryer with full loads. Every time you receive your natural gas bill, change the air filters since they can restrict airflow and higher the operating costs.

OTHER TIPS

During cold times, doors and windows are escaping air to the home making it consuming much gas. To avoid that to happen, you can seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings. Know that the most common places where air escapes are floors, walls, windows, ceilings, fireplaces, doors, plumbing penetrations, and electrical outlets. On sunny days, we advise you to open draperies and blinds in order to let it be warmed by the sun. When night is coming, close them to insulate against the cold air outside.

These habits may seem tiny details, but each time you have them, you will see your natural gas bill lowering. The difference can be noticed the first month you follow these tips.