Cold snap sends heating costs soaring: How to stay warm and save money
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As the bitter cold snap grips the region, residents are feeling the impact on both their comfort and their wallets. With frigid temperatures driving up heating costs, We Energies is offering practical advice to help customers stay warm while keeping their energy bills manageable.
Simple Steps to Keep Your Home Cozy
One of the easiest ways to naturally warm your home is by using the power of the sun. "A nice sunny day like today—opening the blinds, opening the drapes, letting the sunshine warm your house naturally—can make a difference," said We Energies spokesperson Alison Trouy. "Also, raising your thermostat a few degrees, especially when you are leaving the house or going to bed at night."
Blocking Drafts Without Breaking the Bank
Sealing drafts near windows and doors is another crucial step in keeping warm air inside and cold air out. Fortunately, homeowners don’t even need to make a trip to the hardware store to do this.
"Focus on Energy offers a free kit, and you can pick what you get—whether it’s LED lightbulbs or that plastic film," Trouy explained. "That might be a great option for our customers to take advantage of."
Heating Bills on the Rise? Help Is Available
If your heating bills seem higher this winter, there’s a reason. "This winter has been more harsh than last year," WE Energies reports, meaning furnaces are working overtime to keep homes warm. But for those struggling with higher costs, there are assistance programs available.
"The state of Wisconsin has more than 100 million dollars of heating assistance available," Conway emphasized. "Let’s connect customers to that. We have other programs available, but you have to make that call to us."
Southeast Wisconsin residents are encouraged to reach out to We Energies for support and to explore cost-saving options. With a few simple adjustments and available resources, homeowners can stay warm without breaking the bank during this particularly cold winter.