ORLANDO, Fla. – As a powerful cold front sweeps across Central Florida on Thursday night, Florida Power & Light (FPL) has shared valuable advice on reducing heating expenses during this chilly period.

Weather forecasts indicate that several inland counties are set to endure hours of subfreezing temperatures, marking the coldest night the region has faced in more than four years.

This unusual influx of Arctic air is predicted to introduce hazardous cold conditions, making it crucial to bring pets inside, protect delicate plants, and monitor exposed water pipes.

[FLORIDA FREEZE: When will the freezing temperatures arrive, how low will they drop, and how long will they persist?]

In a statement, an FPL representative offered News 6 several tips to help residents manage their heating costs amid the cold snap:

• Set your thermostat to 68°: Every degree below 68 can save you 5% on heating costs.

• Avoid raising the thermostat by more than two degrees at a time: Changing it by more than that can activate your system’s auxiliary heating, which can add up to $15 per day if used over 12 hours a day.

• Use regular/electric blankets before increasing the heat: Just remember to turn them off before you leave the room, and keep children and pets at least 3 feet away.

• Seal out the cold: You can do this by repairing door and window seals.

• Take advantage of the sunshine: Open blinds or curtains during the day.

• Use space heaters safely and efficiently

  • Choose models with thermostats and timers for better control.

  • Keep heaters away from furniture and drapes, and turn them off when leaving the room.

  • For maximum efficiency, use space heaters in well-insulated rooms.

Last year, FPL Lead Energy Solutions Specialist Laura Blair also told News 6 that homeowners can seal off cracks in their homes to keep warm air from escaping.

Meanwhile, you can find the full heating-and-cooling guide below.