MOULTRIE, Ga. (WTXL) - Now that it's near the first of the month many people are making sure their bills are paid although some of their bills are much higher than normal.
People all across south Georgia have shown us their utility bills and how much they have gone up.
A reporter spoke to staff with the City of Moultrie who experienced the same issue.
They say it's due to the way people heat their homes.
According to the City of Moultrie staff, for every degree that you raise your thermostat that's a five percent increase.
So if you raise your thermostat from 68 to 72 you're looking at a possible 25 percent increase in your bill.
It's human nature to try to stay warm but utility staff say think twice before running to your thermostat.
People all over south Georgia have taken to social media and reached out showing $800 and $900 utility bills.
City of Moultrie staff say they have received many calls.
To control your heating, the City of Moultrie utility staff says:
- Place your thermostat at 68 degrees or below.
- Slowly heat up your home, at only 2 degrees at a time. If you go over 2 degrees at a time, your heat strips may kick in increasing your energy consuption, therefore raising your bill. If you leave your unit off, come back to a cold house, and raise your thermostat over 2 - 3 degress to warm it up, thats going to cost you money.
The city is helping those who have been in their home for at least a year and have paid the last 12 months on time.
Qualified customers can pay their normal bill cost and spread the excess over the next three months.
