Once the first week of November passes, I start to feel uneasy. The heater has begun running, but I still don't know how much the first winter gas bill will be.

So before looking into winter rates, I checked the numbers first. To put it simply, the current gas rates are quite uncomfortable.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average residential gas price in Massachusetts was $21.90 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf) in 2024. In 2025, it rose to $25.06.

That's a 14.4% increase in just one year. Compared to $14.71 in 2020, that's a 70.4% rise. Honestly, when I first calculated this number, I had to double-check it.

This year's trend is also clear when compared to the same month last year. January saw an increase from $24.34 to $25.77, a rise of 5.9%.

In April, it jumped from $23.76 to $29.97, a 26.1% increase. In August, it went from $28.46 to $32.10, a rise of 12.8%.

The latest EIA data I checked goes up to August 2026. I can't say what the rate will be this November based on this data.

One thing to note is that summer rates are usually higher. If your usage is low, the base fee can significantly affect the per-unit price.

So, you shouldn't directly compare August's $32.10 with last November's $22.63. You need to look at the same months.

We should also touch on this winter's rate schedule. I tried to find out how much the winter rate is as of November 1, but at the time of writing this, I couldn't check the official rate schedule directly.

I don't want to estimate a rate I haven't confirmed. Instead, it's simple to check on your bill. Compare the usage (therm), supply charge, and delivery charge side by side with the same month last year.

I can't change the rate. What I can change is the therm usage. So the next step is to check your home.

First, check the doors and windows. On a windy day, place your hand near the door seams. If you feel cold air, that's where you should start looking at the weatherstripping.

Second, check the heating system. If it has a filter, check its condition, and if you haven't had it inspected in a while, it's better to schedule an appointment before it gets cold.

Third, check the gaps in the attic and basement. It's hard to assess these areas visually, so getting a professional diagnosis is more efficient.

A useful resource here is Mass Save's Home Energy Assessment. The assessment itself is free, and you can choose between an in-person visit or a virtual one.

According to Mass Save, approved insulation and air sealing projects are eligible for a 75-100% discount. If you meet the income requirements, you might receive these services at no cost.

Mass Save states that insulation and air sealing can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 15%. While the word "up to" should be taken into account, in a year when rates have risen this much, it's a number worth considering.

The program is available for 1-4 unit homes. There's also separate guidance for tenants and landlords, so if you rent, be sure to talk to your landlord first.

If the cost of the work is a concern, there's a 0% interest HEAT Loan available. You can borrow up to $25,000 for eligible projects, but approval from participating banks is required.

To schedule, call 866-527-7283. Benefits come with conditions and may change, so it's wise to ask about the current terms when you call.

If you're a Lexington resident, also check out the town's Energy Advocate program. This program was announced at the end of July and offers 20-minute consultations every Thursday at the Community Center.

You can ask about reading your bill, utilizing Mass Save, rebates, and income-based discount eligibility. For inquiries, call 781-382-4410, and since the announcement didn't specify any costs, be sure to confirm when you make an appointment.

There's also something that can be confusing. The Lexington Community Choice is an electricity program. Being enrolled doesn't affect your gas rates.

The electricity rates are Basic 13.816 cents per kWh, 100% Green 14.733 cents, and New England Green 16.389 cents. These prices are valid until December 2026, so we need to keep an eye on what the next terms will be.

For households facing financial difficulties, it's a good idea to first check for discount eligibility. Heating costs are hard to reduce, but these programs will pass you by if you don't apply. You can also inquire with Lexington Human Services at 781-698-4840.

If it were me, I would do three things this week: check the therm usage on last year's bill, inspect the door seams, and schedule a Mass Save assessment.

Individuals can't stop rate increases. However, you can prevent heat loss. Taking action before your first winter bill arrives is definitely a smart move.