Chattanooga Gas shares bill payment assistance resources and encourages customers to prepare for cooler weather

Chattanooga – October 3, 2022 – As cooler temperatures move in, thermostats go up to keep homes warm and comfortable resulting in higher heating costs due to increased natural gas usage. To help offset winter heating costs, Chattanooga Gas offers bill payment assistance resources to eligible customers whose household budgets may not be able to keep up with increased heating demands.

Enrollment for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is now open. The federal- and state-funded energy assistance program provides income-eligible households with monetary relief for their energy bills. Eligibility is based on several factors, including household size and income up to 60% of the state median income, which for a family of four equates to a gross monthly income of $4,039 or less. To apply for LIHEAP, Chattanooga Gas customers can call Bradley-Cleveland Community Services at 423-479-4111 or the Hamilton County Office of Family Empowerment at 423-643-6434.

The United Way also can refer customers to organizations in their area for bill payment assistance. To reach the United Way, customers can do one of the following: 

• Dial 2-1-1 or 423-265-8000 

• Text their ZIP code to 898-211 to start a text chat

• Email United Way at 211staff@uwchatt.org

Below are other resources to help Chattanooga Gas customers pay and manage their bill: 

• Payment arrangements can provide eligible customers with more time to pay past-due balances and avoid possible service disconnections. Customers can check their eligibility for a payment arrangement by visiting chattanoogagas.com/myaccount.  
• The Budget Plan can help customers avoid unpredictable bills from month-to-month and even out the seasonal highs and lows. To learn more about the Budget Plan and how it works, visit chattanoogagas.com/budgetplan. 

These Energy Saving Tips can help customers become more energy efficient to save on energy costs during the winter heating season:  

• Installing a programmable thermostat - Customers can set the temperature in their home while they are away and increase the temperature when they return.
• Sealing windows and leaks with weather-stripping - For homes with attic access, customers should make sure attic doors are insulated and sealed tight and use weather-stripping and screen door latches for a snug seal.
• Covering vents – Covering vents helps keep cold air out of basement or crawl spaces. Foundation vents can keep floors warmer and heating bills lower.
• Installing a water heater jacket cover – These types of covers can help decrease the cost of heating water by preventing energy loss.

For other ways to save, visit: chattanoogagas.com/residential/ways-to-save.