ENERGY BILL

Five appliances to use in off-peak times to save on your energy bill.

One of the clever ways you can save on your energy bill is by strategically using large appliances at off-peak times. Typically, between 10 pm and 7 am daily, off-peak hours are when demand for power is at its lowest.

From tumble dryers to electric vehicle chargers, here are the best appliances to run at off-peak times to save energy while you sleep.

Dishwashers

Many modern dishwashers have a delay-start feature that allows you to set them to run during off-peak times. Additionally, if your dishwasher has an eco-mode with quicker cycle times or lower temperatures, use these settings when appropriate.

For maximum energy efficiency, only run your dishwasher when it’s full, scrape instead of pre-rinsing your dishes and consider air-drying them when they’re clean instead.

Clothes dryers

Clothes dryers are often energy-intensive appliances, so running them during off-peak times can help you save money. Use the timer or delay-start function to run the dryer during off-peak hours if it has one.

Ensure you’ve used your washing machine’s spin cycle to drain excess water, don’t overload the drum, and run multiple loads to take advantage of the already-hot drum.

Electric vehicles

If you own an electric vehicle, consider charging it overnight during off-peak times. A smart EV charger can be programmed to intuitively charge when electricity rates are cheaper. It can also allow you to monitor the charging process and adjust your charging schedule.

Pool pumps

Depending on the season, some pool pumps need to be run between 6-12 hours a day. If you have a swimming pool, your pool pump likely has a timer that can be programmed to run at specific times. Experiment with running it overnight during off-peak times, adjusting the running times as needed to ensure the pool water remains clean and clear.  This will avoid additional energy and chemical costs, returning the water to its ideal clear and healthy state.

Hot water systems

If your hot water system has a timer, you can program it to heat water at specific times of the day. For example, set your hot water system timer to run during off-peak hours, whilst ensuring it can still meet your household’s hot water needs and consumption patterns.

Monitor your hot water system regularly to ensure it runs efficiently and effectively. Check for leaks, damage, and other issues that may impact its performance.

Check with your energy supplier whether you are on a time of use plan and the exact time for your off-peak hours. If you have a smart meter installed, you can find out whether it is configured to measure your off-peak electricity usage.  If you are an ActewAGL customer, you can check your plan details in my.actewagl.com.au or speak with an Energy Consultant on 13 14 93 to learn more.

Summary

• Run your dishwasher when it’s full, scrape instead of pre-rinsing your dishes and consider air-drying them when they’re clean.
• After using your washing machine’s spin cycle to drain excess water, run your clothes dryer off-peak, avoid overloading the drum and run multiple loads to take advantage of the already-hot drum.
• Use a smart EV charger to intuitively charge your EV overnight when off-peak rates are low.
• Run your pool pump overnight during off-peak hours, ensuring your pool water always remains clean and clear.
• Set your hot water system timer to run during off-peak hours, ensuring it can still meet your household’s hot water needs and consumption patterns.

ActewAGL's energy saving tips are designed to help you take control of your energy use, while reducing your bills and environmental impact. Save with great value energy plans backed by our sustainability promise, supported by 100% local, award-winning service - so you can LIVE A Good Life now and into the future.

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Sources

https://www.energyrating.gov.au/products/space-heating-and-cooling

Disclaimer: These Energy Savings tips and articles are for information purposes only. Please ensure you are aware of any safety precautions before operating appliances or products.