Optimal Times to Do Laundry to Save Money

Understanding Time-of-Use (TOU) Electricity Rates

If your electricity provider uses a TOU pricing model, your rate for electricity varies depending on the time of day. Typically, TOU plans have higher rates during peak hours when overall demand is high and lower rates during off-peak hours when demand is lower. To save money, you should aim to do laundry during these off-peak times.

Peak and Off-Peak Hours

Peak hours usually fall during the late afternoon and early evening, typically between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. Off-peak hours, when rates are lower, generally occur during the late night and early morning, such as from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. However, the exact hours can vary by region and utility company.

Why Timing Matters

Washing machines and dryers use a substantial amount of energy. By doing laundry during off-peak hours, you take advantage of lower electricity rates, which can result in significant savings over time. For example, if your electricity rate drops by 50% during off-peak hours, you could potentially cut your laundry costs by half.

Calculating Potential Savings

Let's look at an example to illustrate potential savings:

Weekly Laundry Cost Analysis

Assuming you do 5 loads of laundry per week:

• Peak Hours: (5 loads) * ($0.30 for washing) + (5 loads) * ($0.50 for drying) = $4.00 per week
• Off-Peak Hours: (5 loads) * ($0.15 for washing) + (5 loads) * ($0.25 for drying) = $2.00 per week

Total Savings per Week: $2.00 Total Savings per Year: $2.00 * 52 weeks = $104.00

Additional Tips for Maximizing Savings

1. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: If possible, invest in ENERGY STAR® rated appliances which are designed to use less energy and water.
2. Wash Full Loads: Ensure that you are washing full loads to maximize efficiency and reduce the number of cycles.
3. Adjust Water Temperature: Washing with cold water consumes less energy compared to hot water. Many detergents are effective at lower temperatures.
4. Dry Efficiently: Use dryer balls to reduce drying time or hang clothes to air dry when feasible.
5. Monitor Your Usage: Use smart meters or apps to track your energy consumption and adjust your laundry schedule accordingly.

Why You Should Start Now

The impact of shifting your laundry to off-peak hours might not be immediately noticeable, but over time, these small adjustments can add up to significant savings. Beyond the financial benefits, reducing energy consumption also contributes to environmental conservation.

Real-World Examples

In many regions, customers who have shifted their laundry to off-peak times report reductions in their electricity bills ranging from 10% to 20%. This not only improves their household budget but also aligns with broader energy conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Timing your laundry to coincide with off-peak hours is a simple yet effective strategy to lower your utility bills. By understanding your electricity provider’s TOU plan and making small adjustments to your routine, you can achieve substantial savings. Start optimizing your laundry schedule today and watch your savings grow.