Stay cool for less money with these 9 energy savings tips

No doubt about it, Florida experiences high temperatures. And when the thermometer rises, everyone turns on their A/C, sending their energy bills soaring.

But you don’t have to be everyone. We have some energy-saving tips to help you stay comfortable without running your air conditioner too much. Check them out.

1. Program your smart thermostat 

Raise your smart thermostat setting as high as you can without feeling uncomfortable. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends a setting of 78° F.

With your Stress-Free A/C smart thermostat, it’s simple to set your temperature by time of day. You can find more tips for efficient thermostat operation here.

2. Remember your annual A/C tune-up

While we’re on the subject of efficient A/C operation, be sure to keep your unit maintained for the most efficient cooling. Your Stress-Free A/C service provider will send you a reminder about your appointment.

3. Block sunlight

Your A/C cools your home, but there are many more ways to keep heat out. Close your curtains or blinds during the day to lower room temperature.

4. Run ceiling or tower fans

While the A/C is off, keep room air circulating with ceiling fans. (If you don’t have any, try rotating tower fans.) They create a sort of “wind chill” effect. You could run your thermostat four degrees higher without feeling a difference, according to the DOE.

Remember to turn the fans off when leaving the room – the breeze cools you, not the space.

5. Clear air vents

When the central A/C unit is running, make sure all the cooled air you’re paying for reaches you. Check for chairs, sofas or rugs covering up floor vents – you want the air moving toward the middle of the room. Also, have an HVAC technician inspect your ductwork, which may clog with dust.

6. Use major appliances at night

Motor-driven appliances can generate a lot of heat. Wait until after sunset to use your clothes dryer or dishwasher. That way, your air conditioner won’t work too hard and run up your electric bill.

7. Eat cold

Speaking of appliances, leave the stove off at mealtime to avoid heating up the house. Enjoy foods like chilled soups, salads, and fresh fruit or ice cream to cool you down. If you must have something hot, use the microwave or an outdoor grill.

8. Insulate, insulate, insulate

Cool air can escape through walls, attics, and windows without proper insulation. It’s a good idea to check for leaks in your home with an infrared camera. Then you can install necessary insulation, caulking or weather-stripping.

9. Switch to LED lights

Lighting has gotten cooler than ever, thanks to new technology. LED bulbs don’t warm a room, yet they use far less energy than old-school incandescent or fluorescent lights. And LEDs are more affordable than ever.

Florida can be a sizzler, but it doesn’t have to burn through your budget. Try these ideas and see how well they help control your cooling costs.

FPL Home Services is a subsidiary of FPL Home and an unregulated indirect subsidiary of Florida Power & Light Company (FPL). The Stress-Free AC^SM program is offered and provided by FPL Home Services, License No. CAC1820030, and not FPL Home or FPL.