GAS bills going higher

Some Oklahoma Natural Gas customers could be paying higher bills, beginning next month. Plus, tips to help you find the right person to fix your furnace. KOTV's Diane White says when it's hot

Saturday, August 4th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Some Oklahoma Natural Gas customers could be paying higher bills, beginning next month. Plus, tips to help you find the right person to fix your furnace. KOTV's Diane White says when it's hot outside, most people don't think about heating their home, but it's a good idea to check out your furnace before cold weather returns.

The gas company can help you find a contractor. But first, why many customers will be soon be paying higher gas bills. The customers are part of the budget payment plan with Oklahoma Natural Gas. ONG makes its annual billing adjustments in August. The company says it will be higher than usual this year, because of last winter's higher gas prices. That means many customers on the payment plan will get a higher monthly bill, beginning in September. You can find the account balance on your bill, ONG says customers who want to reduce that balance can pay a higher amount this month. For more information, call ONG.

If you need help buying or servicing your natural gas equipment such as a heater, ONG can help. The company has a new program - called the Choice Contractor Program. They can provide you a list of qualified contractors. Just call 877-738-5412, or to access their website, www.ong.com.

If you have any questions for consumer six, just call the tipline at 732-6111 or send an e-mail to Diane.