When temperatures dip in Central Florida, most homeowners instinctively reach for the thermostat. But constantly raising the indoor temperature can quickly drive up energy bills—especially in homes with heat pump systems.
At Ridge Energy Savers, we believe staying warm shouldn’t mean wasting energy. The good news? There are plenty of ways to stay comfortable during cold weather in Lake Wales without cranking up the heat.
Here are smart, energy-saving tips to help you stay warm while keeping your utility bills in check.
Layer Your Comfort, Not Just Your Clothing
It may sound simple, but layering is one of the most effective ways to stay warm indoors. Wearing cozy socks, sweaters, or using throw blankets allows you to stay comfortable without raising the thermostat.
For homeowners, this means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work overtime—especially during overnight hours or early mornings when temperatures drop the most.
Let the Sunshine Work for You
Florida sunshine is free heat. During the day, open curtains and blinds on south- and west-facing windows to let natural warmth in. Once the sun sets, close them to help trap the heat inside.
This small habit can noticeably improve indoor comfort while reducing the need for extra heating.
Seal Drafts Before They Steal Your Heat
Even in Florida homes, small air leaks can make a big difference during cold snaps. Drafts around doors, windows, and attic access points allow warm air to escape and cold air to creep in—forcing your HVAC system to compensate.
Simple fixes like weatherstripping, door sweeps, and caulking can go a long way toward keeping warm air where it belongs.
Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way
Most people associate ceiling fans with cooling, but they can actually help keep your home warmer. Set your fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed during the winter. This pushes warm air that rises back down into living spaces.
You’ll feel more comfortable without adjusting the thermostat—and your heating system will cycle less often.
Keep Doors Closed in Unused Rooms
Heating rooms you don’t use is like pouring money out the window. Closing doors to guest rooms, storage spaces, or rarely used areas helps concentrate warmth where you need it most.
This also reduces the overall workload on your HVAC system, improving efficiency during colder weather.
Change Your Air Filter
A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making your HVAC system work harder to maintain comfort. When temperatures drop and systems run longer, clean airflow becomes even more important.
Replacing your air filter regularly improves efficiency, enhances comfort, and helps prevent unnecessary strain on your system.
Avoid Large Thermostat Adjustments
Turning the thermostat up several degrees at once can activate auxiliary heat, which uses significantly more energy. Instead, keep your thermostat set at a consistent, reasonable temperature and resist the urge to make frequent adjustments.
Stability is key to saving money and maintaining comfort—especially with heat pump systems common in Central Florida homes.
Focus on Insulation Where It Counts
Many Florida homes are under-insulated because they’re built primarily for cooling. During colder weather, inadequate insulation allows heat to escape quickly.
Improving attic insulation, sealing ductwork, and insulating exposed areas can make your home feel warmer without increasing energy usage. These upgrades also pay off year-round by improving cooling efficiency in the summer.
Schedule an HVAC Efficiency Check
If your home still feels cold despite your best efforts, your HVAC system may not be operating as efficiently as it should. Small issues—like improper airflow, thermostat calibration, or aging components—can significantly impact comfort and energy use.
A professional efficiency check can help identify opportunities to improve performance without increasing energy consumption.
Comfort Without the Cost
Staying warm in Central Florida doesn’t require turning your home into a sauna. With a few smart adjustments and a focus on energy efficiency, you can stay comfortable while keeping your electric bill under control.
At Ridge Energy Savers, we help Lake Wales homeowners make the most of their HVAC systems—no matter the season. From maintenance and efficiency upgrades to expert guidance, our goal is to keep your home comfortable without unnecessary energy waste.
