As cooler weather approaches Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority offers these tips on saving energy and staying warm:
- Keep the thermostat on your heating system at the lowest comfortable setting. KUA recommends setting the temperature at 68 degrees during the day. Each degree you raise your thermostat will cost you approximately eight percent more.
- For heat pump users, set the thermostat to a constant setting and leave it there, and make sure drapes and furniture are not blocking air registers or returns.
- Exercise extreme caution when using space heaters. Don’t place them near curtains, furniture, newspapers or other combustible materials, or on rugs. Use portable electric heaters to heat only a small area and buy models that are thermostatically controlled. Some portable space heaters have been subject to product recalls. Check your brand and model number and visit cpsc.gov for possible information on your heater.
- Make sure any indoor heaters, like wood stoves or kerosene heaters, have adequate ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Likewise, make sure the flue of your fireplace is working properly and remains closed when the fireplace is not in use.
- Use ceiling fans to distribute heat around the room. Reverse the direction of the fan blades from that used for summer cooling.
- Use exhaust fans sparingly in winter. Heat and moisture from bathing and cooking contribute heat to your home. Don’t, however, use the oven to heat a room.
- Cover bare floors. Carpeting adds to comfort and heat retention, especially if there is little or no floor insulation.
- Wear layers of clothing rather than one heavy piece. Layers efficiently trap body heat and provide greater comfort. Additionally, the layers can be removed to maintain comfort as the body warms.
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