Stay Warm and Comfy Without Heating Up Your Bill

When cooler weather arrives, energy use can increase as heating systems struggle to maintain indoor comfort. In Florida, most homes rely on electric heating. This means increased heating usage shows up directly on the electric bill, much like higher air conditioning use does during the summer. In many other parts of the country, homes use natural gas or other fuel‑based heating systems that are billed separately, which is why winter heating costs may not appear the same way on electric bills elsewhere.

Tips to Stay Comfortable While Using Less Energy

• Service your heating system annually and adjust for maximum efficiency.
• Change filters monthly and make sure they are installed with the directional arrows facing the correct direction. Doing this regularly can cut heating energy use by up to 15%.
• If your home is unoccupied for more than four hours, turn down or turn off the heat.
• Set your thermostat as low as you comfortably can. When possible, set thermostats to 68 degrees or lower in winter.
• Lower your nighttime thermostat at least 10 degrees for 8 to 10 hours to save 10% to 20% on heating costs.
• Seal and insulate ductwork. Leaky ducts can account for nearly 20% of an air conditioner’s energy use.
• In cool weather, run ceiling fans clockwise in occupied rooms. This brings warm air from the ceiling down to the living space.
• Turn fans off in unoccupied rooms. 
• Close fireplace dampers when not in use.
• Ensure windows and doors are properly weather-stripped.
• Open curtains and blinds on sunny days and close them on overcast days to help keep heat in.

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