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Manage Higher Bills

Learn about the factors that may lead to higher natural gas bills.

Have you seen an increase in your natural gas bill? You may expect higher bills during colder months, but there are several reasons your bill could be higher than expected. Here are some of the most common reasons and tips on how you can manage your bill.

  • Weather

    During cold weather, gas usage typically increases three to seven times compared to warmer summer weather since we tend to use our home heater more frequently. The recommended temperature of your furnace to ensure you and your family enjoy a warm home during winter is 68 degrees during the day, and 55 at night health permitting. 

  • Days Within Billing Cycle

    There are typically 29-32 days in a billing cycle, depending on when meters are read for a particular area. However, there are situations that may change the number of billing days. For example, holidays can add up to four days to your billing cycle.

  • Change in Appliance Usage Patterns at Home

    Increased use of appliances during cold weather can impact your bill. Water heaters work longer and harder to heat the colder water coming in, which could double with the arrival of guests at home. Are you cooking more around the holidays, did you leave some appliances left on by accident?

  • Gas Price

    Our rates are regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). You can read more about these costs and the approved rates on this fact sheet * from the CPUC.
     

  • Past Due Amount

    Any remaining past due amount included in your current bill will cause it to be higher.

  • Compare Bills

    For a personalized analysis of factors potentially causing your bill to increase (or change), visit the “Compare Bills” tool within the “Ways to Save” section of My Account.

Ways to Save

Log in or register for My Account to use our online savings tools.

Ways to Save

Log in or register for My Account to use our online savings tools.

Bill Tracker Alerts

If you have an Advanced Meter installed, you are also eligible to sign up for Bill Tracker Alerts, which help you monitor your gas costs throughout the billing period, take steps to lower usage and avoid surprises in your monthly bill. 

Stay Safe and Save This Season

Reduce your energy bill and stay safe.

Stay Safe and Save This Season

Reduce your energy bill and stay safe.

Assistance Programs

You could save money and conserve energy with our assistance programs.