Recent figures show that Terre Haute residents pay nearly one-third less than the monthly nationwide average gas bill in winter. However, the not-so-good news is that industry forecasts predict increased natural gas costs across the country during the winter of 2021-2022. That’s just one worthwhile reason to take another look at ways to reduce consumption and keep your average gas bill in winter as affordable as possible.
Heating represents the largest use of natural gas and thus will have the most effect on your average gas bill in winter. Therefore, keeping your furnace operating at maximum efficiency and making sure the structure of your house retains heat as effectively as possible are worthwhile steps toward the goal of keeping monthly costs affordable. Here are some suggestions:
- Schedule annual preventive maintenance by a qualified local HVAC contractor. The service includes a comprehensive inspection to determine that all furnace components are functioning at maximum efficiency and safe operation. This is followed by a checklist of manufacturer-recommended preventive-maintenance procedures to ensure reliability for the long winter ahead.
- Update your attic’s insulation. If your house is insulated to 1990s standards (or older), it’s probably lacking by today’s more energy-efficient standards. Check the amount of insulation by measuring the depth between attic joists. Current Department of Energy recommendations call for insulating to a level of R30 to R60. For fiberglass batts, this means a depth of between 10 and 20 inches. For loose-fill cellulose, meeting the R-standard requires about 8 inches up to 17 inches. You can upgrade by simply adding more insulation atop existing layers.
- Indoor heat energy naturally moves from the warm indoors into the colder outdoors. Stop it by installing new weatherstripping around doors and movable windows. Plastic or rubber weatherstripping is best and foam tape is cheapest. Because heat rises, identify and seal air leaks in the ceiling, such as around light fixtures, attic-access stairs, as well as penetrations for pipes, cables, or vents. Outdoors, repair any openings in the exterior structure that allow frigid air to infiltrate interior wall spaces.
As our 100th anniversary approaches, Paitson Bros. heating experts stand ready with more suggestions to reduce your average gas bill in winter.
Jeff Paitson is a third generation business owner who continues to run the business with the same values that have been passed down from previous generations since 1922.
Jeff’s belief is that the business belongs to Jesus Christ; therefore 10 percent of the company’s profits go toward the Maryland Community Church.
Jeff is a Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce member and in his spare time, he enjoys 
Ethan Rayburn is a lifelong resident of Terre Haute and a 2005 graduate of Purdue University.
An Eagle Scout, Ethan spent four years as a non-profit executive with the Boy Scouts of America before joining Paitson Bros. as a comfort advisor and later General Manager. In that role, Ethan has brought a renewed enthusiasm for customer care, integrity, value, and service to Paitson Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning.
Ethan enjoys singing and was a member of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. He also enjoys playing and coaching soccer, spending time with his family and two young boys, and volunteering his time and resources with his church, Terre Haute First Baptist Church, which he has attended from a very young age.
Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922