Space heaters are perfect for smaller areas, but make sure you're using it safely.
Winter isn't here yet, but cold weather came early. Want to kick on the heater but trying to save money? It can be challenging to stay warm and cozy without running up your energy bill.
The polar vortex is expected to blast the U.S. with three rounds of arctic air through mid-December. It'll bring storms, frigid temperatures and snow to central and eastern states.
Currently, the Mississippi forecast doesn't call for an extended freeze or snow through the end of the year, but predictions can change as patterns shift. Some areas will still have cold nights.
When grabbing an extra blanket or putting on a hoodie and socks won't cut it, it's time to turn up the heat.
Here's what you need to know about the best temperature for your HVAC system and how to help lower your power bill this winter.
When is the first day of winter 2025?
The first day of winter 2025 is Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in the Northern Hemisphere.
The winter solstice, which has the longest night. It occurs every year on Dec. 21 or Dec. 22.
Will the polar vortex bring freeze, snow to Mississippi?
No. If you're looking for a white Christmas, AccuWeather forecasts aren't showing a big chill in most of Mississippi through early January. Northernmost areas have the lowest predicted temps and best chances of winter precipitation at this time.
Southaven can expect daytime highs in the 40s and 50s with some overnight lows near or below freezing. There could be some snow and rain on the morning of Dec. 30 and some snow, sleet and rain on Jan. 3.
Jackson temperatures are set to warm up into the 50s and 60s. Some overnight lows will drop into the 30s but won't dip below freezing until New Year's Eve.
In Hattiesburg, there are some chilly nights, but temperatures will mostly stay above freezing, per current forecasts.
Gulfport doesn't have freezing temps in the forecast as of early December.
Keep an eye on your local updates for changes as the country deals with cold, snow and storms because of the polar vortex paired with a weak La Niña weather pattern.
Best thermostat temperature for winter in Mississippi
Mississippi Power suggests setting your thermostat to 68 degrees in winter. (They recommend 78 in summer.)
Each degree higher than that could lead to a 3% to 5% increase in energy use. They also suggest adjusting the temperature up or down by one or two degrees at a time to avoid higher bills.
Adjust your thermostat to save money
The Energy Department recommends adjusting thermostats by 7 to 10 degrees from your ideal setting for at least eight hours a day to save money. Milder climates get a higher percentage of savings than places with more extreme weather.
It's also recommended to make the house cooler at night while you sleep.
Will my heater have to work harder if I turn it down?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the idea your home's heating or cooling system will have to work harder to catch up if you roll back the setting for a while is a myth.
In winter, the lower the house temperature, the more slowly the house will lose energy than at a higher temperature.
How low can I set my thermostat?
The World Health Organization recommends a minimum temperature of 68 degrees for children, people with health problems and the elderly. WHO advises a range between 64 and 75 degrees for healthy people.
How cold is too cold?
Thinking of going without heat and powering through with warm layers?
According to the CDC, hypothermia, or a dangerously low body temperature, usually happens in extreme cold but can happen in temperatures over 40 degrees if a person gets chilled from rain, sweat or cold water. A person can lose body heat faster than they generate more, leading to confusion and affecting their ability to move.
Babies sleeping in cold bedrooms can get hypothermia, as can elderly adults who don't have enough food, clothes or heating.
Use space heaters safely to adjust temperatures
Using space heaters can be a good way to adjust temperatures for specific rooms and spaces. But they're not safe to run unattended, like when you're sleeping. Consider options like electric blankets or heated mattress pads for bedrooms.
If you use portable heaters, be sure to practice space heater safety from the Consumer Product Safety Commission to avoid fire risks:
* Make sure the heater is 3 feet away from flammable materials such as paper or chemicals and furniture like beds, couches or curtains.
* Be sure it's on a stable, level surface.
* Ensure the plug fits tightly into the wall outlet.
* Don't plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip.
Check the plug, outlet and cord temperature regularly. If they're hot, stop using the heater. The CPSC recommends having an electrician check and replace a faulty plug or wall outlet. If the cord is hot, don't use the heater until it can be fixed by an authorized repair technician.
Can I get help paying my power bill?
Mississippi Power has multiple programs to help people facing economic hardship, the elderly and people with disabilities pay their bills.
Call 228-701-0555 to talk to a Catholic Charities representative to find out if you're eligible for Project SHARE. Or you can donate to help someone in your community.
Or you can call the Mississippi Power Customer Care Center at 800-532-1502 to find out about bill discounts for households that get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF).
Bonnie Bolden is the Deep South Connect reporter for Mississippi with USA TODAY Network. Email her at [email protected].