Heating bills this winter (November through March) are expected to be higher than last winter. The National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) projects a national average of $1,030 and a Northeast average of $1,449. By fuel, heating oil is forecast to jump the most at 31.3%, followed by electricity at 9%, propane at 8.7% and natural gas at 8.6%. New York residents can get heating assistance through HEAP, and New Jersey residents through LIHEAP and USF.
The nor'easter has passed and temperatures are starting to drop. New York City's heating season also begins on Oct. 1. But forecasts say heating will cost more this winter than last.
The National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) projects that U.S. households will spend an average of $1,030 on heating from November through March, about $80 more than last winter. The Northeast figure is much higher, at $1,449, because of the many older homes and the longer cold season.
Households That Use Heating Oil Will Be Hit Hardest
The gap between fuels is wide. Natural gas is rising 8.6%, propane 8.7% and electricity 9%, while heating oil is jumping 31.3%. As of Sept. 14, heating oil cost $5.98 per gallon, up 62 cents from three weeks earlier. This matters locally: quite a few single-family homes in northern New Jersey and the New York suburbs still use heating oil (oil boilers).
If you use heating oil or propane, it is worth asking your supplier about a budget plan. It spreads the bills that pile up in midwinter over 12 months, easing the burden of large lump-sum payments. Prepaying to fill your tank before prices rise further is also worth comparing, since terms vary by supplier.
Households whose income meets the eligibility criteria can receive government assistance. New York State provides direct heating aid through HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program). For inquiries, call the OTDA hotline at 1-800-342-3009; New York City residents can also apply at ACCESS.NYC.GOV. New Jersey has LIHEAP and USF (Universal Service Fund), with applications accepted through the state website or local social service agencies. Funding is limited, so it is better to apply early in the season.
It also pays to look at ways to spend less. Sealing gaps around window frames and front doors with weatherstripping and keeping sunny curtains open during the day can make a difference. Having your boiler inspected before the season can help you avoid an urgent call for help in the dead of winter. Renters should also remember that they have the right to demand that their landlord provide heat when it falls below the required temperature.