At River Bank, we know Wisconsin winters all too well — and we also know how quickly winter heating costs can add up. For families and businesses alike, energy bills are one of the biggest challenges when the cold settles in. The good news is that with some smart planning and the right banking tools, you can head into winter confident that your home (and your budget) will stay comfortable.
Understanding Heating Bills
Here in Wisconsin, most households heat with natural gas, while many rural neighbors depend on propane or fuel oil. Electricity is another option, though it can be costly during long cold spells.
Your heating bill depends on several factors:
Severity of winter — A colder-than-average season can raise costs dramatically.
Efficiency of your home — Drafts, insulation, and furnace age make a big difference.
Energy prices — Natural gas and propane rates shift year to year.
Tip: Review last year’s heating bills and plan for 10–15% more this year to build in a safety cushion.
Budgeting Tips for Heating Costs
Heating bills feel overwhelming when you’re unprepared. Building them into your fall budget makes all the difference.
Start a heating fund: Save a set amount each month starting in September or October.
Use a separate savings account: At River Bank, we can help you open a dedicated account just for seasonal expenses like heating.
Track your usage: Many local providers (Xcel Energy, Alliant Energy) let you view your usage history online.
By treating heating as a planned expense, you’ll avoid surprises when the first cold snap hits.
Make Payments Simple and Stress-Free
Managing winter bills isn’t just about saving — it’s about reducing stress.
Set up auto-pay through your River Bank checking account to avoid late fees.
Enroll in budget billing with your energy provider to spread heating costs evenly across the year.
Look into assistance programs like the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) if you qualify.
With automatic payments and budget billing, your heating costs become predictable and easy to manage.
Energy-Saving Tips to Lower Your Bill
Small changes at home can make a big difference:
Quick fixes: Seal windows and doors, replace furnace filters, and adjust thermostats by a few degrees.
Daily habits: Close off unused rooms, open curtains on sunny days, and use heavy curtains at night.
Long-term upgrades: Add insulation, upgrade old furnaces, or explore rebates through Focus on Energy Wisconsin.
The less energy you use, the more money stays in your pocket.
Local Support in Western Wisconsin
River Bank has 13 locations across western Wisconsin, serving communities like La Crosse, Bangor, Tomah, West Salem, and Holmen. We understand the financial pressures that come with winter heating costs — because we live here, too.
If you’re ready to prepare, visit your nearest River Bank branch or give us a call. We’ll help you:
Open a dedicated savings account,
Explore a short-term CD, or
Set up auto-pay through your checking account.
Winter heating costs are a reality in Wisconsin — but financial stress doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation and support from River Bank, you can make this winter affordable and stress-free.
At River Bank, we’re here to help our neighbors stay warm — and keep their finances just as comfortable.
