Feeling the Heat: How Florida's Record Temperatures Are Impacting Your Electric Bills

Feeling the Heat: How Florida's Record Temperatures Are Impacting Your Electric Bill and What You Can Do About It

Florida is experiencing record-breaking heat, with ocean temperatures reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit and cities like North Port, Sarasota, Venice, Port Charlotte may be having their hottest year. As temperatures soar, so do electric bills. Air conditioning units are working overtime to keep homes cool, leading to a spike in energy consumption. Many homeowners are struggling to keep their electric bills down during this period of record heat. Here's what you can do to keep those bills in check:

1. Optimize Your Air Conditioning

- Set the Thermostat Wisely: Consider setting your thermostat to 78°F when you're home and 85°F when you're away. This can save you up to 10% on cooling costs. Smart thermostats are a good way to automate this process without much effort.

- Use Fans: Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler, allowing you to set the thermostat higher without sacrificing comfort.

- Maintain Your AC: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing filters, ensures that your AC runs efficiently.

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2. Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

- Choose ENERGY STAR® Appliances: These appliances meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA, helping you save on electric bills.

- Use Appliances Strategically: Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens during the hottest part of the day.

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3. Consider Florida Solar Panels

- Harness Solar Energy: Solar panels can reduce your reliance on the grid, lowering your electric bills.

- Add a Backup Battery: A backup battery can store solar energy for use during peak times or outages.

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4. Insulate and Seal Your Home

- Add Insulation: Proper insulation keeps the cool air in and the hot air out, reducing the workload on your AC.

- Seal Leaks: Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping.

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5. Practice Smart Water Usage

- Use Cold Water for Laundry: Washing clothes with cold water can save energy and money.

- Install Low-Flow Fixtures: These fixtures reduce water usage, lowering the cost of heating water.

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Conclusion

Florida's record heat is more than just an inconvenience; it's a financial burden for many homeowners. But with the right approach, you can turn the sun's power to your advantage. The record heat doesn't have to result in sky-high electric bills. By following these tips, including considering Florida solar panels, you can stay cool without breaking the bank. For more information on how solar energy can be part of your energy-saving strategy, contact us today.

Sources

CBS News: Florida ocean temperature hits world record heat of 100 degrees Fahrenheit

Washington Post: Florida's hottest year in Miami, Tampa, Tallahassee

WPBF: How to keep your electric bill down while dealing with Florida record heat