I'm fortunate enough that heat is included in my rent. It sucks in Summer when I feel like I'm paying higher rent than I need too, but I know in the winter months I'm saving a ton over what I used to pay with heat & rent combined.
I think over-all I actually save money this way. Plus I'm not afraid to keep it warm in the house for a change. Gone are the days of keeping it at 62 degrees to save money.
Since I'm on natural gas for my heating, I just deal with a few months of high bills. I am pleased to report that the renovations I've already made to the house have had a positive impact on my winter utility bills. They are still high, but not as bad as last year.
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MM
That which does not kill me postpones the inevitable.