Soaring Energy Prices Drive Up Heating Costs | ABC World News Tonight

If you’ve seen your heating bills skyrocket this winter, you’re not alone. The combination of plunging temperatures and soaring inflation has led to a literal “perfect storm” of factors contributing to the issue. Add in the real storm that pummeled the Northeast in late January, and many homeowners are finding themselves with unexpected and crippling utility costs.

At Ciel Power LLC, we’re all about helping today’s homeowners live more comfortably and affordably in their homes through energy-efficient upgrades. That’s why ABC World News Tonight came to us when they ran a story on the phenomenon.

Here’s a closer look at the situation, along with Ciel co-founder Scott Fischer’s advice for homeowners looking for relief.

Escalating Heating Bills

Heating system types have been affected to varying degrees. Households with natural gas are seeing an average 30 percent increase in their heating bills, while households relying on electricity are seeing an average increase of 6 percent. Households dependent on heating oil and propane are seeing even more dramatic increases at 43 percent and 54 percent, respectively.

While the numbers are different, the theme is the same: Heating costs are rising for everyone. The good news? There are things you can do to stop the bleed.

Ciel Power Weighs In

As an energy efficiency expert, Scott knows a thing or two about heating and cooling costs. In the report, he weighs in with a top tip for weathering this storm: Signing up for Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®.

This national partnership between the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency helps contractors and energy programs deliver meaningful home energy upgrades. Participation gives homeowners access to a comprehensive home evaluation, recommendations for upgrades, access to a network of trained and qualified contractors, and cashback to improve your home’s energy efficiency. It’s a win-win.

And you don’t necessarily have to make big changes, either. Says Fischer, “A tube of calk and some weather stripping goes a long way.” In fact, it can help your home retain up to 10 percent more heat.

We’re big believers in the adage, “A little goes a long way,” here at Ciel Power LLC. And you can do “a little” right now by watching the ABC World News report below. In less than two minutes, you’ll learn how to start moving in the direction of a safer, healthier, and more energy-efficient home.

Click the video above to watch.