subject: Average Heating Bill In Connecticut [print this page] Unfortunately for its residents, the average heating bill in Connecticut is typically far more expensive than in other states. This is because Connecticut has high electric rates (almost two-times higher than the national average) and a cold winter climate.
While a majority of homes in the U.S. use a natural gas heating system, many households rely on heating oil or electric heat. The price of natural gas, oil, and electricity greatly impacts the average heating bill in Connecticut at any given time. A recent study showed that the average residential natural gas heating bill in CT was around $2,000 during the winter months. The average oil heating bill in Connecticut was around $1,700, while the average United Illuminating residential heating bill was just over $1,200 during those same months.
The cheapest and perhaps safest way to heat your home is with a forced-air heat pump; however, many people overlook this system's low operating costs and long-term benefits because of its high up-front installation costs. Oil and gas furnaces are much cheaper to install, but are less safe and cost more to operate over time. The most expensive type of central heating system is an electric furnace. And, of course, the most eco-friendly way to heat your home is through solar heating.
There are several ways to reduce your Connecticut heating bill. First, make sure that your heating system is running efficiently. Check your air ducts for leaks and seal any cracks along windows, doors, and walls to limit air leakage. Also be sure that your insulation has the proper R-value, a.k.a. resistance to heat flow (for Connecticut residents, that's an attic insulation R-value of R49 to R60 and a floor R-value of R25 to R30).
Another way to reduce your Connecticut heating bill is to change your system's filter(s) regularly. A dirty filter makes your system work harder than it needs to, costing you extra money each month. Also make sure that air can flow freely throughout your home by keeping all vents open and unblocked. Applying these simple money-saving strategies can reduce your average Connecticut heating bill and result in a significant savings!
