Winter Tips for MA Residents

Winter is here and the cold weather brings sweaters, snow, and increased heating demands! The average low and high temperatures in Massachusetts between December to March are 24°F and 37°F. There are certain protections in the state to help you through the frosty months ahead.

Under certain conditions, utility companies are not allowed to turn off your electric, gas, and water. If your household is low-income and you cannot afford heat between November 15 to March 15, the utility company cannot shut off your heat. You should ask the company for a hardship application and sometimes this protection lasts until April. If all residents of your home are 65 years old or more, your electricity and gas cannot be shut off without first getting permission from the Department of Public Utilities (DPU). If you are experiencing financial hardship and one of the following applies, your gas and electricity cannot be shut off without permission from the DPU:

• A resident of your home is seriously ill

• You have an infant under 12 months old in your home

• All adults are 65 years old or older and a minor child resides in the home

While heating cost increases may be unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to prevent exorbitant utility charges. Regular lightbulbs can be replaced with LED bulbs. These use about 75% less electricity and burn out much slower. This can significantly lower your energy costs. Sealing up cracks in windows, doors, walls, and floors can prevent heat leakage. If a certain room in your house if colder than the rest, you may have leakage. Check and replace your air filters to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Dirty filters are not only a fire hazard but cause your system to work harder and may cause unnecessary damage while increasing heating costs.