As temperatures rise, approximately 1.5 million seasonal residents (aka snowbirds) in Florida prepare to leave their homes for cooler climates. As snowbirds get ready to migrate, Florida Power & Light (FPL) recommends energy saving tips for properly closing your homes for the summer.
Thermostat tips:
- Set your thermostat to 80°F and adjust the humidity control to maintain indoor levels below 60%. Use a programmable thermostat to cool your home to 72°F for just two hours before sunrise. If your thermostat doesn’t have a humidity control option, use a dehumidifier to prevent mold.
Related: 4 Easy Packing Tips for Snowbirds
Appliance tips:
- Turn off your water heater at the circuit breaker and shut off the main water valve. If your home has an automatic fire-sprinkler system, leave the main valve on but turn off the water supply to your washing machine, sinks, dishwasher, and toilets.
- Set your pool pump to run six hours per day during the summer. Arrange for someone to check your pool’s chemical levels and water level.
- Unplug electronics and add timers on indoor lamps. Make sure all smoke alarms are working and have fresh batteries.
- If you prefer to keep your refrigerator on, set it at its warmest setting and turn the ice maker off. If you plan to unplug or turn your refrigerator off, clean the interior thoroughly and leave doors open.
Other Considerations:
- Protect your home with a hurricane plan before you leave. Install hurricane shutters prior to your departure if you will be gone for the duration of hurricane season (June to November).
- Monitor your home’s energy usage with the FPL Energy Manager tool, an all-in-one tool that shows you where and how your home consumes energy.
By following these simple steps, snowbirds can enjoy a worry-free summer knowing their Florida home is protected and costs are kept in check. For more energy-saving tips and tools, visit https://FPL.com/WaysToSave.
