Cozy Without the Cost: Tips to Manage Winter Energy Bills

As the crispness of winter settles in and we lean into cozy nights, family gatherings, and warm meals, our homes become sanctuaries against the chill. But with that extra comfort can come higher natural gas bills. We know how stressful those seasonal spikes can feel—and we want to help you understand why they happen, along with simple ways to stay warm while helping you manage your energy costs this winter.

Why Do Gas Bills Rise in the Winter?

When the winter chill hits, it takes more energy to keep your home warm—and that's one of the reasons gas bills tend to rise in the winter. But a few other factors can also quietly drive those costs up.

Increased Usage for Heating

When temperatures drop, your furnace works harder and longer to maintain that cozy indoor temperature you love. More runtime means more natural gas used, which naturally appears on your bill.

Increased Appliance Usage

Winter tends to bring us indoors—whether it's cooking holiday feasts, hosting guests, or enjoying longer showers to shake off the chill. Gas-fueled appliances, like water heaters, stoves, ovens, and even fireplaces, often see more use during these months, and all of it adds up.

Supply and Demand

Beyond your own usage, market conditions also affect your bill. During the colder months, demand for natural gas often rises across the country. This higher demand often drives up the market cost of gas, reflected in what's called the Cost of Gas Adjustment. The CGA is a direct pass-through with no markup from Summit Natural Gas of Maine, and we work diligently to secure the best possible rate for our customers.

Simple Tips for a More Energy-Efficient Home

Here's the good news: you have more control than you might think. With just a few small adjustments, you can aim to make your home warmer, cozier, and more energy efficient—all while helping to keep costs in check. Here are some quick tips:

• Apply weather-stripping to door frames to block drafts and help keep warm air inside.
• Use caulking to seal cracks and gaps around windows for a tighter seal against the cold.
• Ensure your attic and walls are well-insulated to help retain warmth.
• Replace air filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak winter use, to support efficient airflow and system performance.
• If your health allows, set your thermostat a bit lower when you're asleep or away from home so you're not using energy you don't need (or heating while you're bundled up).
• Open your curtains on sunny days to naturally warm your home and close them at night to add insulation.
• Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise during winter to help push warm air down into your living space.

See More Energy-Saving Tips

Long-Term Savings with Energy-Efficient Appliances

Are you shopping for a new appliance, or do you have an existing appliance that's on its way out? Upgrading to a high-efficiency appliance is a smart long-term move! High-efficiency furnaces and water heaters use less energy while maintaining your home's comfort level. Choose maximum efficiency up front to help save for years. Depending on the model, Summit Natural Gas of Maine offers impressive rebates on select equipment. It's comfort you feel and peace of mind you can count on.

View Rebates

Smooth Out Your Bills with Levelized Billing

Budgeting for energy costs can be tough when winter brings seasonal spikes depending on your usage. That's why we offer Budget Billing. This program spreads your energy costs evenly across the year, giving you a steady, predictable monthly payment. No more surprises—just peace of mind through every season.

Enroll In Budget Billing

We're Here to Help

Winter should be about warmth and comfort—not worrying about energy bills. By understanding what drives those seasonal increases, making small changes at home, and exploring programs like levelized billing, you can feel more confident and in control. We're here to be your partner—providing the reliable energy you depend on and the information you need to use it wisely.