With the soaring cost of electricity bills, many households are finding ways to save money. From tips to save on energy bills to 15 water saving tips, these can all help to reduce your usage, saving you money every month.
But, did you know that the electricity you use in the day doesn’t cost the same? In fact, if you’re always doing laundry, you could save money by simply running your washing machine at a certain time.
This is because most energy companies' offer time-of-use utility plans that charge more for electricity during peak hours, while off-peak times are much cheaper. If you’re on a standard electricity plan however, rates will remain steady throughout.
Similar to companies like Uber, this on-peak surge typically occurs when the grid is busy, and electricity is in high demand. During this time, you’ll be paying the highest amount per kilowatt-hour (kWh) used. So if you’re running large appliances such as your washing machine or dishwasher at peak times, your bills will be costly.
On the other hand, off-peak hours occur when less consumers are using the grid, making electricity prices cheaper. If you’re at home during off-peak hours, this is the best time to do your laundry or run the dishwasher. While it’s cheaper to do laundry late at night, experts advise never to put a load in while you sleep to avoid a fire risk.
So if you’re not already on a time-of-use plan or off-peak tariff, it’s worth asking if your utility provider offers this. Then you can work around the peak and off-peak hours, making a huge saving when doing your laundry. Also, don't make this one mistake when doing your laundry!
If you want to find more ways to save money on laundry day, check out how to make your own laundry detergent. Also, if your washer is acting up, here are 7 signs that you need a new washing machine. Are you washing your coats often enough? Find out how often you should wash your coat.
When is the best time to run your washing machine?
Typically, electricity is cheaper first thing in the morning before 8 a.m. and after 7 p.m. (after work hours). In the UK, peak rates generally surge between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., while off-peak times are between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Again, this will depend on what electricity tariff you are on.
In the US, off-peak times vary among different time zones, and also depend on the summer or winter seasons. These are the peak and off-peak times for the Eastern, Central, Mountain and Pacific time zones.
Summer
- Eastern time zone: Peak time is between 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Off-peak is 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Central time zone: Peak time is between 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Off-peak is 5 a.m, to 1 p.m.
- Mountain time zone : Peak time is between 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Off-peak is 11 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- Pacific time zone: Peak time is between 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Off-peak is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Winter
- Eastern time zone: Peak time is between 6 a.m. to 10 a.m./6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Off-peak is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m./10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Central time zone: Peak time is between 5 a.m. to 9 a.m./5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Off-peak is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m./9 p.m.-5 a.m.
- Mountain time zone: Peak time is between 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Off-peak is 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Pacific time zone: Peak time is between 6 a.m. to 10 a.m./5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Off-peak is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m./8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
So before you turn on your washing machine, check the time first, and potentially save serious cash.
If you want your washing machine to last longer, be sure to read how to clean a washing machine. Or if you want an upgrade, you can check out the best washing machines and best clothes dryers for best results. Also, what is an Energy Star rating and how can it save you money?
