U.S. consumer sentiment, a barometer of consumer spending, unexpectedly fell in February, according to a survey released Friday.

The University of Michigan’s preliminary reading of its consumer confidence index for February was 94.2, off from January’s final reading of 95.5. Analysts had expected the preliminary February figure would hold steady at 95.5.

The index is based on a phone survey of about 300 households. The final report for the month, due March 4, will reflect about 500 responses.