Managing Energy in Fluctuating Fall Weather

Fall in Florida can be unpredictable. One day it’s hot and sunny, the next, it’s cooler and cloudy. Changing temperatures and seasonal storms can affect your energy use and impact your bill. Our programs, tools and resources can help you stay comfortable and manage your energy costs.

Stay Comfortable and Use Less Energy

Smart System Settings

Heating and cooling (HVAC) systems are built to maintain a steady indoor temperature—not to heat or cool your home quickly. In most cases, an HVAC system can consistently keep your home about 20 degrees warmer or cooler than the outdoor temperature. For example, if it’s 96° outside, 76° is typically the lowest achievable indoor temperature. Lowering the thermostat setting further won’t likely make your home cooler and will increase energy use. Your specific system’s performance depends on factors like its age and capacity, as well as your home’s size and overall energy efficiency. Using a smart thermostat to automatically manage your home’s heating and cooling settings will help maximize efficiency and comfort.

Heating and Cooling Tips

• In warm weather, set your thermostat as high as you comfortably can. Each degree higher can save about 7% on cooling costs.
• In cool weather, set your thermostat as low as you comfortably can. Lowering your thermostat 10 degrees overnight for 8 to 10 hours can save 10 to 20% on heating costs.
• Avoid making large or frequent thermostat adjustments. Set a steady, comfortable temperature so your system can run efficiently.
• Adjust the temperature setting if your home will be unoccupied for four hours or longer.
• Change heating and cooling filters monthly and make sure they’re installed in the correct direction. This can cut energy use by up to 15%.
• Service heating and cooling systems annually and adjust for maximum efficiency.
• Seal and insulate ductwork. Leaky ducts can account for nearly 20% of a heating and cooling system’s energy use. 

Ceiling Fan Tips

• In warm weather, run ceiling fans counterclockwise in occupied rooms. This will pull the warm air up to the ceiling and away from the living space.
• 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 (fans comfort people, not rooms). 

Home Efficiency Tips

• Insulate your attic access door and close it tightly.
• Close fireplace dampers.
• Weather strip windows and doors properly.
• Open curtains and blinds on sunny days to let heat in and close them on cool days to keep heat in.
• Get home energy-efficiency tips for appliances and everyday tasks.

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