Cold snap hits the Gulf Coast: How to stay warm without breaking the bank

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

The temperatures are dropping across the Gulf Coast, but it could come with a higher electric bill.

The first instinct for many is to rush to the thermostat and crank up the heat, but experts warn that doing so can get expensive fast.

Energy specialists recommend setting your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower, then increasing it no more than two degrees at a time if needed.

Raising the temperature too quickly can drive up costs, potentially as much as $15 a day if the heat runs more than 12 hours.

There are other simple ways to stay warm without relying heavily on your heater.

Make sure doors and windows are tightly closed and that air filters are clean, which helps your system run more efficiently.

Letting in natural sunlight by opening south-facing curtains during the day can also provide extra warmth at no cost.

Cutting back on hot water use can help lower bills as well. Experts suggest taking shorter showers and setting your water heater to 120 degrees to save energy.

For extra warmth, space heaters can be useful, but safety is key. Always turn them off when you’re done, keep them away from furniture and curtains, and make sure children and pets don’t get too close.

Pool owners can also trim costs during the colder months. Running your pool pump two fewer hours per day could save you about $8 a month.

Experts also say layering up or bundling up with an electric blanket can make a big difference.

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