Some of the coldest winter weather in more than a decade hit our state in late January when temperatures in some cities dropped to the 20s.
Since many residents of the Sunshine State haven’t experienced these frigid temps in quite a while, consider these tips on how to stay safe, warm, and save on utilities while doing both.
Positioning Space Heaters
If you use, or plan to use, space heaters to kill the chill in your home this winter make sure they are positioned at least 3 feet from other objects, says Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. This can help prevent fire hazards, since heating elements in some of these appliances can reach up to 350 degrees.
Never leave children unattended near space heaters, and opt for newer heaters that have tip-over shutoffs and timers.
Be careful that the cord of your space heater doesn’t become a tripping hazard—but avoid running it beneath rugs and carpets.
Ventilating Fireplaces, Wood Stoves, and Combustion Heaters
If you use a fireplace, a wood stove, or a combustion heater to warm your home, verify that it’s properly vented to the outside of your residence and does not leak gas or exhaust from the flue, per the CDC. If you use a kerosene heater, be sure that it’s properly ventilated as well.
Never use a grill for heat indoors, since it releases carbon monoxide—which is deadly.
Saving Money on Central Heating
If you use central heating to warm up during cold snaps, Florida Power & Light says that for every degree that you lower your thermostat during colder weather, you can save around 5 percent on your monthly heating bill.
The utility suggests that you set your thermostat as low as is comfortably possible—consider 68 degrees, or cooler—and setting the thermostat fan to “auto.”
For more savings, consider lowering your thermostat to 65 degrees, or cooler, around bedtime or when you’re not at home.
