Why Your Bill May Be Higher This Winter

Understanding Your Natural Gas Use and Winter Bills

WHY YOUR BILL MAY BE HIGHER THIS WINTER

Winter in Florida looks different than in much of the country, but natural gas use can still increase during cooler months. Cooler mornings and evenings, shorter days and seasonal routines — such as space heating and increased hot water use — can all affect your natural gas bill. Understanding what drives winter energy use can help you better manage costs and plan ahead.

Even without freezing temperatures, several factors can contribute to higher winter natural gas bills in Florida.

  • Cooler Temperatures and Home Heating
  • Even modest temperature drops can cause furnaces, wall heaters, or gas fireplaces to run more often, especially during early mornings and evenings.
  • Increased Hot Water Use
  • Cooler weather can lead to longer showers and greater use of hot water, which increases natural gas consumption by your water heater.
  • Cooking and Seasonal Activities
  • Holiday cooking, entertaining and spending more time at home can increase the use of natural gas appliances such as ranges, ovens and dryers.
  • Shorter Days and Lifestyle Changes
  • With more time spent indoors, natural gas–powered appliances may be used more frequently, adding to overall usage.

These seasonal factors can raise winter natural gas bills — even when household habits don’t change significantly.

Why Cooler Days Can Increase Natural Gas Use

Even small changes in outdoor temperature can increase energy use.

For example, heating indoor air or water when it’s 50°F outside requires more energy than when it’s 70°F—even if your thermostat or water heater settings stay the same. The greater the difference between the outdoor temperature and your comfort setting, the harder your system must work and the more natural gas it uses.

Lower Energy Use
Less Natural Gas Needed

Much Higher Energy Use
More Natural Gas Needed

Why Cooler Days Can Increase Natural Gas Use
Why Cooler Days Can Increase Natural Gas Use

Simple Ways to Manage Winter Natural Gas Use

You don’t need to make major changes to see an impact. Choosing just one or two of these tips can help manage natural gas use during the winter months.

Use Appliances Mindfully

Use Appliances Mindfully

Run dryers and dishwashers with full loads and follow manufacturer recommendations for efficient operation.

Seal Drafts and Retain Heat

Seal Drafts and Retain Heat

Close curtains at night, seal air leaks around doors and windows, and keep interior doors closed to help your home stay warmer longer.

Cook Efficiently

Cook Efficiently

Use appropriately sized cookware, keep lids on pots, and turn burners off a few minutes early to take advantage of residual heat.

Manage Hot Water Use

Manage Hot Water Use

Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets, and wash laundry with cold water when possible to reduce the amount of gas needed to heat water.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Adjust Your Thermostat

Lower your thermostat by a few degrees and use light layers or blankets to stay comfortable while reducing natural gas use.

Manage Pool And Spa Settings

Manage Pool And Spa Settings

Lowering pool or spa temperatures by a few degrees and using a pool cover at night can significantly reduce energy use.

Every home is different, and small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference over time.

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Upfront Savings Available

The More You Add, The More You Save

Upgrade with energy-saving natural gas appliances and earn rebates on every eligible appliance you install. Total savings can exceed $1,000 toward your purchase.

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Understanding Your Florida City Gas Bill

Your natural gas bill is based on how much fuel your home used and the length of the billing period. These sections can help you better understand your charges:

THERMS USED

Natural gas usage is measured in therms. Increased use of heating systems, water heaters or gas appliances will raise this number.

Therms Used

BILLING PERIOD

The billing period shows how many days are included on your bill. A longer billing cycle may result in higher total usage simply because it covers more days.

BIlling Period

USAGE HISTORY OR GRAPH

This section lets you compare your natural gas use month to month. Many customers see seasonal increases during winter due to heating and hot water use.

Usage Graph

Click below to view an easy-to-read bill sample, which includes a more extensive breakdown of the terminology found on your bill.

Help Is Available

If higher winter natural gas bills are difficult to manage, help and resources may be available.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Some natural gas customers may qualify for LIHEAP, a federally funded program that helps with home energy costs. Eligibility and availability vary by county.

To apply for LIHEAP funds, visit: Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Payment Options

Customers who need additional time to pay their bill should contact Florida City Gas before the due date to discuss available options.

Energy Efficiency Rebates

Save energy and money by investing in energy-efficient natural gas appliances.

Learn more about available rebates: Residential Appliances and Rebates – Florida City Gas Rebates

For billing questions or payment support, call Florida City Gas Customer Service at 800.993.7546, Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m. ET.

Reach Our Team

Have questions about your natural gas bill or need personalized support? Florida City Gas customer service representatives can help you:

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How can we help?

Customer Service: 800.993.7546 (Mon–Fri, 7:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m. ET)
Gas Emergencies or Odor of Gas: 800.993.7546 (24/7)

Website: floridacitygas.com

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