It the home you are building energy efficient?

If you are considering building a home you are no doubt concerned with making sure the home is energy efficient.

Florida Power & Light Company BuildSmart® certification offers an energy efficiency option for buyers of newly constructed homes. These homes are certified to being built at a higher standard of energy efficiency.

You can search for a BuildSmart® builder by visiting FPL. Builders certified locally are in Daytona Beach, Lake Mary, New Smyrna, Orange City, Ormond Beach & Port Orange.


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Why is my electric bill high?

If you are a Florida Power customer you might be asking that question in the months ahead.

The Florida Public Service Commission approved Florida Power & Light Company request to increase their customer’s electric costs to offset unanticipated fuel costs. Reports are that the increase will be approximately 8%.

The FPL news release does offer the following ways to reduce your electricity usage.

• Cool your home at 78 degrees or warmer with the thermostat fan switch on “auto.” For additional savings, raise your thermostat to 82 degrees or warmer when you’re away from home.
• Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature automatically and maximize your energy savings.
• Clean or replace your air conditioner’s filter monthly to trim your cooling costs.
• Turn off your ceiling fan when you leave the room. A fan that runs constantly can cost up to $7 a month depending on size and age.
• Avoid pre-rinsing dishes before putting in dishwasher. It can save nearly $6 a month.
• Limit the time you run your pool pump to six hours a day in summer and four a day in winter.
• Adjust the water level on your washing machine to match the load size, especially when using hot water. Always use a cold rinse.
• Clean the lint filter in your dryer before every load to dry your clothes faster and save money.
• Use the auto sensor function on your dryer, if you have one, to conserve energy by not over-drying your clothes.

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- Greg Staker, Watson Realty Corp. 407-304-0255