Calculating the cost of energy to run our homes seems like such a mystery
at times. But what would you expect from an industry that issues something
called a “Market Prices and Uncertainty Report”? That’s one of the publications
the federal government creates about the outlook for energy prices (though it’s hard to imagine other business sectors touting
“uncertainty” as if it’s a given).
So what’s
ahead for natural gas prices this winter and how will it affect the homes
around here that depend on this source for their cold-weather heating comfort?
Trying for an
uncomplicated explanation here… basically, the cost to heat your home is going
to be affected by how much natural gas folks “think” will get used (that’s
called a usage prediction). Plus, how much natural gas they “think” will be
needed. That’s called a demand forecast. Plus, what’s available now (that’s the
inventory).
There’s also
a little factor called “speculation,” which is when investors bet on the price
energy will reach in the future. And you add to that one more unpredictable
factor called “the weather.”
That very
frigid winter we “enjoyed” last time hit the inventories pretty heavily. Plus,
Mideast unrest always causes concerns about oil exports. So there’s much about
energy costs that we cannot control. But here’s the other side of the equation:
There’s a LOT
we can do about the energy efficiency of the systems that run your home, thus
providing you savings on energy all season long.
If you’d like
to learn how to beat the high natural gas prices, you can start with an
analysis of the current energy usage in your home. We can do that for you free;
just let us know you’d like to get that survey.
Replacing an
old energy guzzler with a new, highly efficient model can save 20% over last
year’s energy usage – and that’s just one of the perks ahead when you’re ready
to make a change. In fact, you’ll find that a very generous trade-in allowance,
super-long guarantees and extra convenient financing will make your upgrade
decision very easy. Want to learn more? Just click this link:
Get a free energy survey analysis and see if a new system is your best bet for continued comfort!