A new space heater is one part of Loela Jones' preparations for winter.
The 90-year-old Omaha, Nebraska, resident has also lowered her thermostat and canceled cable TV to free up her budget for higher energy bills.
Here's what to know
According to KETV, the National Energy Assistance Association projects a 6% increase in natural gas prices and a 9% increase in electricity prices this winter.
"I am very concerned," Jones told KETV, as higher bills could eat into an already stretched budget.
More background
Other seniors shared her worries about the costs ahead, Jones noted.
KETV's conversations with residents about winter heating bills took place while temperatures were in the 70s.
Beth Fritz described the challenges facing neighbors with little room in their budgets.
"I worry for people who are less financially secure, more on the edge or just trying to get started and don't have that assistance that they need," she told the station.
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Another resident, John Carl Denkovich, said he's backing political candidates who make energy security a priority.
"I think for everyone from bottom to top, affordability and prices are a huge concern including energy," he told KETV.
One of the best ways to save on utility bills and protect against rising energy prices is to upgrade HVAC equipment. In recent years, many states have introduced plans to help residents get their hands on efficient heating and cooling.
Palmetto can help you understand your options for newer, more efficient HVACs and heat pumps, and its Comfort Plan network can help you find efficient heating and cooling solutions and connect you with vetted installers.
What can be done?
Turning down the thermostat before leaving for the day and switching off kitchen and bathroom fans are two ways customers can manage bills, the Metropolitan Utilities District told KETV.
The utility also suggested a budget plan with consistent monthly payments. Asking about a payment plan is another step Omaha Public Power District recommended to customers struggling to pay bills.
For homeowners who aren't ready to spend upfront on replacement equipment, Palmetto's Comfort Plan includes $0-down options that can lower heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. Palmetto Comfort Plans also include 12 years of free maintenance.
Homeowners can pair solar panels with electric appliances, including efficient HVACs, to drive utility costs even lower. EasyHome makes it easy to compare solar options and find the best solar system and installer for your home and budget.
Where can I learn more?
Households outside Omaha are also bracing for higher heating bills and looking for ways to save.
• A New York utility said a 65-degree thermostat setting could cut heating use by 15%.
• A homeowner seeking winter oil heating savings got advice to warm the bed instead.
• A renter faced $500 winter electric bills in a home measuring just 325 square feet.
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