As winter temperatures continue to fluctuate in Florida, Duke Energy is providing customers with resources, tips, and tools to help them manage energy usage and reduce utility bills. Duke Energy meteorologists reported peak highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s and peak lows in the 30s and mid-40s for December and January. To save energy and money, Duke Energy suggests the following tips:
"Whether using your AC or heat, adjust your thermostat to the most comfortable setting. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bills," advises Duke Energy.
Regularly changing air filters is another easy way to improve heating and cooling efficiency. "A dirty air filter makes a system work harder, which uses more energy and can increase costs," says Duke Energy. It is also recommended to have heating and air conditioning systems checked regularly by a qualified contractor to maintain efficiency and peak performance.
Leaving drapes or blinds open during sunny winter days allows the sun's rays to warm the house, while closing them during hotter days and at night helps insulate the home. Duke Energy also advises checking windows, doors, and vents for air leaks and caulking, sealing, and weatherstripping as necessary. This can save 10% to 20% in heating costs.
Replacing standard bulbs with light-emitting diodes (LED) is another energy-saving measure. "LEDs are more efficient than regular bulbs, while giving off the same amount of light. Replacing just six of your most frequently used bulbs with LEDs can save up to $480 over the lifetime of the bulbs," explains Duke Energy.
Ceiling fans can also contribute to energy savings. "Operate ceiling fans in a clockwise direction in the winter, which pushes warm air back down into the room, and a counterclockwise direction for the hotter weather," advises Duke Energy. However, it's important to turn the fan off when leaving the room.
Managing water heating is another way to save energy and reduce expenses. Duke Energy recommends setting the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or less, as water heating is typically the second-biggest user of energy in a home.
In addition to these tips, Duke Energy offers various programs and tools to help customers manage and understand their monthly energy expenses. These include Budget Billing for predictable monthly bills, Installment Plans/Payment Plans for paying back balances over longer periods of time, Usage Alerts to have more control over electricity use and spending, Pick Your Due Date to choose the date energy bills are due each month, Due Date Extension for extending payment due dates by up to 10 business days, and Flexible Rate Options to manage energy costs by shifting energy-intensive tasks to periods of low demand.
Duke Energy also provides a Free Home Assessment to help customers lower their bills and see if they qualify for rebates and a free home energy kit. Additionally, programs like EnergyWise® Home, Weatherization, and Customer Assistance offer further opportunities for energy savings and financial assistance.
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, serves 1.9 million residential, commercial, and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy is one of America's largest energy holding companies, serving 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. The company is committed to achieving net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050.
By following these energy-saving tips and utilizing the programs and tools offered by Duke Energy, customers in Florida can reduce their energy usage, lower their utility bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future. For more information and assistance, customers can visit duke-energy.com or contact the Customer Care number listed on their energy bills.