Why Your Bill May Be Higher This Winter

Understanding Your Electricity Use and Winter Bills

WHY YOUR BILL MAY BE HIGHER THIS WINTER

Winter in Florida looks different than winter in most parts of the country, but electricity use can still increase this time of year. Shorter days, cooler mornings and evenings and seasonal activities like heating pools or running heat pumps more often can all affect your bill. Understanding what drives winter electricity use can help you manage costs and plan ahead.

Even without freezing temperatures, several factors can contribute to higher winter electricity bills in Florida.

Cooler Temperatures and Heat Pump Use

Even small temperature drops can cause heat pumps to run longer, especially mornings and evenings.

Pool and Spa Heating

Heating pools and spas can significantly increase electricity use, particularly overnight.

Shorter Days and Lighting

Fewer daylight hours mean lights are used longer indoors and outdoors.

Seasonal Lifestyle Changes

More time at home can increase appliance, electronics and hot water use.

These factors can raise winter electric bills—even when habits don’t change much.

Why Cooler Days Use More Electricity

Even small drops in outdoor temperature can increase electricity use.

For example, heating indoor air or pool water when it’s 50°F outside requires more energy than when it’s 70°F — even if your thermostat or pool heater setting stays the same. The larger the difference between the outdoor temperature and your desired setting, the harder your system must work.

Lower Energy Use
Less Electricity Needed

Much Higher Energy Use
More Electricity Needed

Why Cooler Days Can Increase Natural Gas Use

Simple Ways to Manage Winter Electricity Use

You don’t need to make major changes to see an impact. Choosing just one or two of these tips can help manage electricity use during the winter months.

Manage Pool And Spa Settings

Lowering pool or spa temperatures by a few degrees and using a pool cover at night can significantly reduce electricity use. Running pool pumps only as long as needed can also help.

Adjust Your Thermostat

If you use a heat pump, setting the thermostat a few degrees lower and using light layers or blankets can help reduce energy use while maintaining comfort.

Use Lighting Efficiently

Turn off lights when rooms aren’t in use and consider switching to LED bulbs, which use less electricity and last longer than traditional bulbs.

Take Advantage of Daylight

Open blinds or curtains during the day to let natural sunlight warm your home. Close them in the evening to help maintain indoor comfort.

Be Mindful of Appliance Use

Run dishwashers and laundry with full loads and unplug electronics or chargers when they’re not in use to reduce ongoing electricity consumption.

Every home is different, and small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference over time.

Understanding Your Electric Bill

Your electric bill is based on how much electricity your home used and how long the billing period lasted. These sections can help you better understand your charges:

KILOWATT HOURS (KWH) USED

This shows how much electricity your home used during the billing period. Increased use of heating systems, pool equipment, lighting or appliances will raise this number.

BILLING PERIOD

The billing period shows how many days are included on your bill. A longer billing cycle can mean higher total usage simply because it covers more days.

USAGE GRAPH

The usage graph allows you to compare your electricity use from month to month. Many customers see seasonal increases during winter due to heating, lighting, and pool equipment use.

Click below to view an easy-to-read bill sample, which includes a more extensive breakdown of the terminology found on your bill.

View Sample Bill

Efficiency 1st Program

The Efficiency 1st Program from Florida Public Utilities offers easy, no-cost ways to save energy and lower monthly bills. Begin with a free Weatherization Kit and qualify for smart home technology upgrades that help you save even more.

WHY IT MATTERS

Lower monthly energy bills.
Improve comfort year-round.
Use smart technology for greater control.
Support a cleaner, more efficient energy future.

HOW IT WORKS

Take the online pledge and complete a short energy evaluation.
Receive a FREE Weatherization Kit filled with easy-to-install items.
Confirm installation and unlock your Smart
Home Energy Kit — including smart LEDs, a smart thermostat and more.

Sign Up Today!

Help Is Available

If higher winter electric bills are difficult to manage, Florida Public Utilities offers programs and resources to help support customers experiencing financial hardship.

ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Energy Assistance Programs

Income eligible households may qualify for assistance through local social service agencies that partner with Florida Public Utilities. Support may include bill payment help, emergency assistance, and community resource referrals.

Call 800.427.7712 to learn about programs available in your area.

Payment Extensions

Need more time to pay your electric bill? Customers may request a payment extension for short term flexibility. All extensions must be requested before the bill due date.

Call 800.427.7712 or submit a request at
fpuc.com.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Some electric customers may qualify for LIHEAP, a federally funded program that helps with home energy costs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

To apply for LIHEAP funds, visit:
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Budget Billing

Budget Billing helps make monthly bills more predictable by averaging electricity costs throughout the year. Enrollment is free and available to eligible customers in good standing.

Learn more about Budget Billing.

Reach Our Team

Have questions about your electric bill or need personalized support? Please fill out the form below, and one of our team members will be in touch to help you:

"*" indicates required fields

Why Your Bill May Be Higher This Winter