This year’s weather forecast expects a cooler winter compared to the last two relatively warmer winters. As the temperature goes down, the cost of staying warm goes up as the price of fuel rises. These rising prices of natural gas, propane, and electricity are affecting 94% of US households while funding for low-income heating assistance decreases.Natural gas users are expected to pay an average of $679 this year, which is up 13% from last year. Electricity users will pay an average of $909, which is up only 2% from last year. Propane users in the Midwest will pay $1453, up 9%, while Northeast users will pay $2146, up 11% from last year. Heating oil users will average $2046, which is down 2% from last year, but are still paying near record prices to heat their homes.Take Charge of Lowering Your BillStates and utilities often offer incentive programs for energy audits and home weatherization. This includes adding insulation, installing energy efficient windows, and replacing old boiler or furnace systems. These investments pay for themselves in just a few quick years, especially when energy prices continue to rise.If you have energy efficient windows then you may already know you spend less money on your energy bill, and that you qualify for incentive programs that help save you even more money. If you don’t have energy efficient windows, well, it’s time to invest!Invest Now to Save Now, and Later! Now through the 27^th of November Renewal by Andersen of Louisville is offering great deals on replacement windows and doors that will help with these rising heating costs. And if that isn't enough to make your decision, contact us today and ask about our great financing and payment plans.There is still plenty of time to replace those old windows before winter hits, and plenty of time to save more money!Other Ways to Help Lower Your Heating Bill

• Add more blankets to your bed
• Wear a heavier sweater around the house
• Lower the thermostat; you'll save on your heating bill about 1% for every degree it’s lowered
• Use a programmable thermostat to turn the heat down when you’re away or asleep
• Close the damper in the fireplace when it's not in use
• Keep air vents clean and uncovered so heat flows effectively
• Shut off kitchen and bathroom fans as soon as they’re unneeded
• Lower the temperature on the hot water heater
• Use cold water for laundry and rinsing dishes
• Insulate the pipes that move hot water