Tips for Saving Energy

• Adjust thermostat settings for air conditioning to 78 F degrees or higher, if health permits; keep temperature readings constant until notified that the energy shortage has passed.
• When you’re not going to be home for an extended period, raise the thermostat setting to 82 F degrees or higher.
• Close curtains and blinds to help insulate homes and buildings against cooling loss.
• Avoid using room air conditioners; turn them off when you leave the room or home.
• Reduce use of all non-essential electric appliances.  Run your dishwasher and wash and dry your laundry later in the evening.
• Turn off all non-essential lighting and electric appliances, such as pool pumps.
• Turn off lights when you leave a room or when they aren’t needed.
• Shower later in the evening or early in the morning.
• Leave refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
• If someone in your home is dependent on electric powered, life-sustaining medical equipment, check back-up facilities.
• To avoid heating up the kitchen and adding moisture to the air, cook outdoors, use a microwave oven or small appliances like a toaster oven or electric skillet. Microwaves use less than half the power of a conventional oven and cook food in about one-fourth the time.

The Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA)