Ways to manage heating bills expected to increase in the Mahoning Valley this winter
According to MoneyGeek, the cost of keeping homes warm this winter in the U.S. is expected to cost the same or less than it did last winter for most customers, except in the Midwest.
Heating costs could go up as the temperatures decrease in northeast Ohio, and across the Midwest region, according to data from the Energy Information Administration analyzed by MoneyGeek.
The Midwest is the top U.S. area with the highest expected percentage changes in heating costs this winter.
Gas bills could increase by about $11 this winter in Ohio. Data analysts looked at the EIA Winter Fuels Outlook projections by region and considered increased consumption and prices to estimate natural gas heating costs per household per month.
The Ohio Department of Development and statewide gas companies have programs to help homeowners and renters manage these expenses.
Enbridge Gas Ohio
Customers with Enbridge Gas Ohio can use payment plans and government energy assistance programs to keep warm and their homes draft-free this winter.
Customers can find information 24/7 online by searching keywords billing options and assistance.
Customers who need help paying their heating bills are urged to contact Enbridge Gas Ohio immediately at 1-800-362-7557 to inquire about payment plans and energy assistance programs. Hearing-impaired customers with Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf can call 7-11.
Enbridge also has short term payment extensions and long-term payment plans for residential, small and mid-sized businesses and places of worship
Residential customers can also utilize energy efficiency programs and government and Enbridge Gas-sponsored energy assistance.
Customers who have exhausted all other forms of energy assistance can apply for Enbridge Gas’ EnergyShare® program.
It’s funded with company contributions and donations from customers and employees. The EnergyShare® program runs from Dec. 1 to May 31 of 2025, or until funds run out.
Customers can find out if they meet yearly income requirements by contacting The Salvation Army.
Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s Special Reconnect Order
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s annual Special Reconnect Order took effect on Oct. 14.
It allows all residential customers, regardless of income, to pay a maximum of $175 to keep or restore gas service, even if the customer owes more. Customers can use it once during the heating season, between October 14, 2024, through April 18, 2025.
For more information on the Special Reconnect Order, customers can visit the Enbridge Gas website or the state’s special reconnect order page at www.enbridgegas.com/ohio175.
Safety risks of using alternative heating methods to save money
The National Fire Prevention Association warns against using heating equipment like space heaters and fireplaces.
According to the NFPA study, stationary or portable space heaters are responsible for 88% of home fire deaths caused by heating equipment.
Fires caused by fireplaces or chimneys only accounted for 6% of home fire deaths, but they were responsible for 22% of the property damage caused by heating equipment.
Given those findings, the Association’s recommendations are to:
Get stationary space heaters, water heaters and central heaters professionally installed in compliance with local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
If you use a portable heater, make sure it is turned off before leaving a room or going to sleep.
Schedule annual inspections of your heating equipment and chimneys.
