LOS ANGELES, Oct. 28, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Higher natural gas costs nationwide, coupled with increased use of furnaces by Southern Californians chilled by this week's wet and cooler weather, are likely to result in higher natural gas bills in the coming weeks, according to Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company).
"Natural gas costs have risen nationwide due, most recently, to higher crude oil prices and damage to Gulf of Mexico production facilities from Hurricane Ivan," said Michelle Mueller, vice president of customer services at The Gas Company. "These market factors, combined with more natural gas usage in the region as a result of the recent inclement weather, are likely to result in gas bills that are higher than last year."
Based on current industry price projections, typical residential customers of The Gas Company will see their monthly bills increase to $80 to $90 this winter (based on 75 therms of usage), compared with $67 last year, Mueller said.
The Gas Company offers customers these helpful tips to help manage their winter gas bills:
-- Focus on the furnace, the use of which accounts for about half of
a typical customer's monthly gas bill.
-- Lower the furnace thermostat by 3 degrees to 5 degrees and save
up to 10 percent to 20 percent on heating costs. For every hour
the furnace runs, it costs about $1.00.
-- Keep heating systems operating safely and at peak efficiency with
regular maintenance.
-- Clean or replace furnace filters before and during the heating
season or according to manufacturer recommendations and save up
to 2 percent on heating costs.
-- Install a programmable thermostat to help regulate the home's
temperature for comfort control and energy savings.
-- Open the drapes or blinds during the day and let the sun help
warm the home. Close drapes or blinds at night to keep the warmth
inside.
-- Caulk and weather-strip drafty windows and doors to save up to 5
percent on heating costs.
-- Consider adding another blanket or two at night to stay warm.
-- Visit www.socalgas.com to receive a free online home
energy-efficiency analysis, find out where the most energy is
being used at home and the best ways to conserve.
-- While at The Gas Company's Website, look for information
regarding available rebates on qualifying natural gas appliances
for the home, such as energy-efficient water heaters and furnaces
-- or even programmable thermostats and insulation.
Mueller encouraged customers who may have difficulty paying their gas bills to call The Gas Company at (800) 427-2200 to work out special payment arrangements or to receive information on the Level Pay Plan. Customer-assistance programs, such as the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program, which provides a 20-percent discounted rate to income-qualified customers, also are available.
The Gas Company is the nation's largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 19.2 million consumers through 5.4 million meters. The company's service territory encompasses 23,000 square miles in most of central and Southern California. The Gas Company strives to provide exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life in the community. The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company. To learn more, go to www.socalgas.com.