Electricity is one of the biggest expenses for most households, especially during the summer. Everyone wants to lower their electric bill without giving up the comfort and conveniences of electrical appliances, and there’s an easy way to do so. Scheduling your appliances to run during off-peak hours is one of the most effective ways to keep using your gadgets without spiking your electric bill.
What are off-peak hours?
Off-peak hours are times when the energy grid is not under a lot of stress— generally late at night when most people are fast asleep. Why is there more electricity available during off-peak hours? The generators that power your electrical grid run 24/7 to ensure everyone has access to electricity at any time. Since most people on your grid are asleep during off-peak hours, less energy is being used and the price of energy goes down. Electricity is often cheaper late at night or early in the morning, rather than the middle of the day when it’s the most expensive.
How can off-peak hours help you save energy?
Off-peak hours mean you won’t have to pay as much for the electricity you use in that time window. With some simple planning and a slight schedule change, you’ll be able to take advantage of off-peak hours and lower your electricity bill.
Many households now have smart technology like programmable thermostats, washers and dryers, and dishwashers, all of which can be programmed to run during off-peak hours. Use the delayed start feature on your smart technology to set your devices to run while you’re asleep. You can also use off-peak hours to charge your devices while you sleep. Plug in and charge your phone, laptop, gaming devices, and other chargeable items during this time. Unplug them in the morning and try to avoid plugging them in again until off-peak hours.
Even more money saving tips
Perhaps the smartest way to save money during peak hours is by adding a home battery as an alternate source of energy. This is a battery that can be charged with electricity overnight, during off-peak times. It is then used to power your home during peak times, completely eliminating your electricity usage during the most expensive parts of the day.
You can also choose to power your home with solar panels. Depending on how many solar panels your house can support, you could become completely independent from your electrical grid. You won’t have to worry about peak hours, and you’ll be able to drastically reduce, or even eliminate your electric bill.
Make the Switch With Kosmos Solar
If you’re thinking about switching to solar power for your home, Kosmos Solar is here to help. Our licensed solar technicians will work with you to decide on the best installation plan. We will tell you everything you need to know and answer your questions about going solar so you can enjoy your new energy independence for as long as possible. Call or visit our website today for a free quote!
