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As a member of Carroll Electric Cooperative, you know that making smart energy choices to lower your energy consumption can help you save money. But did you know that when you use electricity can be just as important as how much you use?

Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning, when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings, usually between the hours of 3 and 7 pm, when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes, and watch television.

These times, when members are using more electricity at the same time, are called “peak” hours. The cost to provide power is higher during these times because of the additional demand for electricity, especially during the hot summer months. When temperatures are 90 degrees or higher, your daily power consumption can rise significantly.

By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as “off-peak” hours, you can help Carroll Electric avoid having to purchase energy when costs are the highest and keep energy costs low.

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours:

• Adjust your thermostat. During the summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours. The smaller the difference between the outdoor and indoor temperature, the less energy your air conditioning unit will use.
• Limit the use of hot water. Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours.
• Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle.
• Consider using a clothesline to dry clothes rather than using your dryer.
• Turn off lights, fans, and other electronics when not in use. Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or off-peak hours.
• Avoid using the oven and stove during peak hours. Outdoor grills or small appliances, like microwaves, are more energy-efficient, will not heat up the home, and typically require less electricity during their use.

There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine.

You can see more energy-saving tips at: https://www.carrollecc.com/energy-saving-tips

We are here to help. Contact us at 1-800-432-9720 if you have questions about your energy bill or for additional energy-saving tips.