JUNO BEACH — As temperatures plunge across Florida this week, Florida Power & Light Company is warning customers that cold weather can drive up energy costs, with heating systems consuming two to three times more power than cooling units.
The utility, which serves more than 6 million accounts and about 12 million people statewide, recommends adjusting thermostats to the lowest comfortable setting to minimize bills. For every degree below 68, households could save up to 5% on heating expenses, according to FPL guidelines.
Customers should avoid cranking the thermostat up by more than two degrees at once, which might trigger auxiliary heating and add as much as $15 to daily costs if run for over 12 hours, the company said.
To stay warm without spiking usage, FPL suggests focusing heat on occupied rooms using space heaters safely, bundling up in layers, and relying on electric blankets for added comfort. Ceiling fans can also help circulate warm air downward by reversing them. Also, fans should be turned off when rooms are empty to save about $7 monthly.
Sealing doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk can help keep warm air in and block drafts. An open damper equates to leaving a window ajar, allowing warm air to escape and cold air to enter.
On space heater safety, keep heaters clear of furniture, drapes, children and pets by at least three feet, unplug them when leaving the room, and avoid extension cords to prevent fire risks.
“Florida winters can be unpredictable, and even a few cold nights in a row can increase energy usage,” said J.T. Young, FPL’s vice president and general manager. “Planning ahead and making small adjustments at home can help customers keep their bills as low as possible all season long.”
For additional guidance, FPL directs customers to FPL.com/WaystoSave for free tools like the Energy Manager program, plus details on rebates and energy-saving initiatives. The site FPL.com/HouseofSavings offers winter-specific tips.