Cold Nights, Hot Bills: How Florida’s freezing temps could hit your wallet

Central Florida is preparing for three consecutive freezing nights that will test the limits of local heating systems and could spike energy bills. Most heat pumps in the area are only designed to handle temperatures down to approximately 35 degrees. As temperatures drop below these design parameters, heating systems must work harder and consume more power, leading to higher utility costs for residents. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating typically accounts for about 29% of a household’s energy bill. Bill Green, vice president of Green’s Energy Services, said local heat pumps do combat both the heat and cold. However, unlike northern furnaces or radiators, heat pumps struggle when the outside temperature is significantly lower than the desired indoor temperature. “Most of our heat pumps in this area are designed for a maximum low temperature of about 35 degrees,” Green said. “So this is going to test it beyond its design parameters.” Read more: https://www.wftv.com/news/local/cold-...