Back to School + Thermostat Changes = Significant Savings!

School is back in session and whether or not you feel ready to end the lazy days of summer, you definitely feel ready to end the crazy days of summer utility bills!  When the kids are at home, running around and leaving doors open, it takes a lot of energy (and money!) to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Now that there are fewer people in the house you can effectively lower your cooling bill by raising your thermostat when you’re not home and utilizing time of use (TOU) rates.

Most utility companies have time of use schedules, or "on-peak" and "off-peak" hours, when electricity rates fluctuate.

Time of use in Florida changes twice a year, in April and November.  This means that electricity costs more during certain hours of the day starting in the spring and changing in the fall.  Once you know what those hours are, you can be sure to use the most electricity during off-peak times.

What appliances should I use during off-peak times?

Some household appliances that are best used during this less expensive time are:

• washers/dryers
• dishwashers
• pool pumps
• air conditioners

While it is not reasonable to keep your air conditioner off during the day while your home is empty, it is wise to lessen its use so that you aren't 1) damaging your residence with suffocating heat or 2) returning home to a broiling oven.