JEA Shares Summer Savings Tips as Temperatures Rise Across Northeast Florida

2026-07-07

JACKSONVILLE, FL, July 7, 2026 –– As hotter temperatures return to Northeast Florida, JEA is encouraging customers to take simple steps now to manage energy and water use, monitor monthly consumption and seek assistance early if they are concerned about their utility bill.

During the summer months, air conditioners often work harder and run longer to keep homes cool. Even when a thermostat setting stays the same, higher outdoor temperatures and humidity can increase energy use and lead to higher bills. JEA offers free tools, practical conservation tips and payment solutions to help customers stay informed and in control.      

“Small changes around the home can make a meaningful difference, especially during periods of extreme heat,” said Dr. Charles Moreland, JEA’s chief customer experience officer. “We want customers to know they have tools to monitor their usage, ways to reduce consumption and options available if they need help with their bill.” 

Ways to save during summer heat

JEA recommends customers consider these simple steps to help reduce energy use:   

Set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher when home and raise the setting a few degrees when away. Use ceiling fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler but turn them off when leaving the room. Keep blinds, shades and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to reduce heat coming through windows. 

Customers should also make sure air vents and returns are not blocked, change air filters monthly or as needed, and set the thermostat fan to “auto” instead of “on.” Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance can also help ensure cooling systems are operating efficiently before the hottest stretch of the year. 

For water savings, customers can check irrigation schedules, look for leaks and avoid unnecessary outdoor watering. JEA also offers free irrigation assessments and water conservation resources to help customers reduce water use and lower costs. 

For additional savings, customers can also explore JEA rebates for eligible home upgrades and efficiency improvements. Available rebates may help offset the cost of qualifying products and services that can reduce energy or water use over time. Customers can review current rebate opportunities and eligibility requirements at jea.com/rebates. 

Monitor usage before the bill arrives

Customers can better manage their monthly bill by tracking usage through their jea.com account and the My JEA mobile app. JEA’s online tools allow customers to view usage trends, compare consumption and better understand how weather and household habits may affect monthly charges. 

Customers can also sign up for free alerts by text or email to receive notifications when usage reaches preset amounts. These alerts can help customers make adjustments before the end of the billing cycle. 

Help is available for customers who need more time or support

JEA encourages customers who are having difficulty paying their bill to reach out as early as possible. Depending on eligibility, customers may be able to request a payment extension or apply for a payment arrangement that allows a past-due balance to be paid over time. 

Customers can also be connected with community resources, including United Way of Northeast Florida 2-1-1, which helps identify available financial assistance and other support services. JEA’s Neighbor to Neighbor Fund also provides temporary assistance to customers facing a financial crisis. 

Customers can learn more about savings tips, usage tools and payment assistance options at jea.com or by calling JEA Customer Care at 904-665-6000. 

Summer savings checklist: 

• Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher. 
• Use ceiling fans only in occupied rooms. 
• Close blinds and shades during the hottest part of the day. 
• Change or clean HVAC filters regularly. 
• Keep vents and air returns clear. 
• Set thermostat fans to “auto.” 
• Monitor usage through your jea.com account or the My JEA app. 
• Sign up for text or email usage alerts. 
• Check irrigation settings and follow watering schedules.
• Contact JEA early if you need a payment extension, payment arrangement or assistance referral. 

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About JEA

JEA is a municipal utility providing safe, reliable and affordable services to more than one million residents across four Northeast Florida counties. JEA is not owned by investors and does not earn a profit. It was created by the City of Jacksonville to meet the electricity and water needs of those who live in Jacksonville and surrounding communities. JEA’s 2,200-plus workforce is dedicated to meeting customer needs, both today and for generations to come, while protecting our precious natural resources and supporting our region’s growth and economic development. Learn more at jea.com.

Media Contact

Karen McAllister
media@jea.com | 904-665-5500

Category:

• conservation
• customer
• education
• electric
• rates
• ways to save