totally confused on gas rates -- can anyone help?

[Donnachaidh]

We're moving and we have to get a gas account for hot water. Our landlord said to not sign up for anything higher than .80 per therm, and the ones I've checked so far are under that. But the fixed rates are messing with my head - 6 month fixed versus 12 month.

Then a *grand plan* of .65 per therm for 12 months, but a minimum usage of 1000 therms (I assume it's per month?) is required.

Any dummies guides out there?

[Warpy]

1. If you're not heating with gas, then the fixed rates make no sense

However, the first thing you need to do to that gas water heater is turn it down to 120, usually the lowest setting. That will deliver water that is hot enough for just about everything while saving you a bundle of cash on heating all that water to a high temperature while you're sleeping or at work.

If you do that, you'll never use enough to qualify for that super low fixed rate. You'll come out ahead, though.

People who heat their houses with gas often come out ahead on the fixed yearly rate. Misers like me don't.

[old mark]

2. Please read my post WARNING of energy suppliers (Gas) and fixed rate

offers. Should still be near the top here.


mark