Reduce Energy Use During Summer’s Peak Hours
Reduce Energy Use During Summer’s Peak Hours
Peak hours are the busiest times for Access Energy Cooperative, since many people are using electricity at the same time. In addition, it costs your cooperative more to generate electricity when demand soars during peak periods - and the cost of your electricity also may rise. In short, using less electricity during peak periods can save your coop - AND YOU - money.
The following are some tips showing how you can help during peak hours. The times to watch the most generally occur on the hottest summer days between 3:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
- Shift household chores and activities away from peak periods. Wait to run your dishwasher until you go to bed, for instance.
- If you have air conditioning, turn the thermostat up when you are gone and at night. Cool only those rooms that you are using.
- Use the most energy-efficient appliances you have. Your microwave oven, for example, uses considerably less energy than your stove or cooktop. It also produces less heat!
- If you’re buying a new appliance, make sure you get a highly efficient one. Look for “Energy Star” labels when you’re comparing different models.
- Be aware of your energy consumption, and try to get in the habit of using energy efficiently year-round.
- Use the energy you need, but need all you use!