Unless this winter duplicates last year's near-record warm temperatures, we can all expect to use more fuel to heat our homes, which means the cost will go up from the 2011-2012 season.
In Connecticut, where about half of households heat with oil, costs are expected to rise by 19% this winter, according to a federal report cited in the Hartford Courant. That means about $407 more for the season, if you heat with oil, and natural gas costs are expected to go up as well.
Most of that cost, the Courant reports, can be attributed to more cold days than last year. We've already experienced some pretty low temperatures this fall, and Friday night's forecast calls for below-freezing numbers in some parts of the state.
So do you bring out the blankets and the Snuggies and stick with a specific date to turn on the heat? Or do you base your decision on how much people in your household complain about their frozen toes or cold hands?
Take our poll and tell us in the comments.