Sunshine State Stats February 2020
Spring arrived in February 2020 – along with media reports of COVID-19 risk, Saturn as a morning star, Mercury as an evening star and above average temps. Daily high temperatures ranged from the low 60s to the high 80s. Nighttime temperatures ranged from low 40s to low 70s. Members probably used both A/C and heat to combat these temperature extremes in February.
The monthly average temperature was a comfortable 66 degrees – which was 2 degrees lower than the monthly average temperature in February 2019. The highest daily recorded temperature soared to 88 degrees and the lowest daily recorded temperature was 41 – a fluctuation of 45 degrees between warm and cool temperatures.
February 2020’s average high temperature was 76 degrees with an average low of 55. In February 2019, the average high temperature was 78 degrees while the average low temperature was 58 degrees. If you compare this year’s usage to last year’s and see a difference, it’s likely due to your heating and cooling systems running more often.
On February 2, 2020, Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow which traditionally means an early spring. Locally we enjoyed 13 days with temperatures that reached above 80 degrees – which is substantial for February. Rainfall was above average at 2.14 inches for the month compared to .87 inches last February. According to February’s spring-like weather, it looks like the tradition proved true this year.
Members who used heat during the colder mornings and cooling in the warmer afternoons can expect to see an increase in energy consumption on their February billing statement. ENERGY STAR recommends setting your heat to no higher than 68 degrees during the winter months.
Have you scheduled an annual HVAC service? January and February are typically the coldest months in Florida. A well-maintained unit runs more efficiently and helps lower your energy usage. Read more about HVAC service and maintenance in November SECO News.
March 2020 forecast:
March 2020 is forecast for an average high of 79 degrees most days in the month reaching temperatures in the mid-70s and 80s. The average low is forecast at 64 degrees with low temperatures dipping into the 50s. Precipitation levels are forecast to be low throughout the month.
To check historical usage, log into SmartHub to view past bills and consumption charts. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.
To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.
