Dealing with high energy bills can be frustrating, but there are simple ways to save money, like adjusting your laundry schedule. Energy providers often charge more during peak hours, when most people do their laundry.
Allie Ogletree, a money-saving expert from Save On Energy, explains that many energy companies implement time-of-use (TOU) rates, charging extra for electricity usage during peak hours. Most people wash clothes on weekdays in the early evening (4pm-7pm), after work. Shifting your laundry routine outside these peak hours can significantly reduce your energy bills.
Summer Savings:
The cheapest time to do laundry during the summer is early in the morning. Demand for electricity is typically lowest in the summer mornings, so washing clothes as early as possible can result in lower energy bills. As the sun rises, energy demand increases, especially during hot afternoons when fans are running.
Winter Washing:
The situation is reversed in the winter. People tend to turn on their heating first thing in the morning, leading to higher energy demand. Therefore, the best time to wash clothes in the colder months is at night.
Additional Tips for Saving Money on Laundry:
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Hang clothes outside:
During warm weather, drying clothes on a washing line is a great way to save electricity.*
Cold water wash:
Washing clothes in cold water can save significant energy as heating the water accounts for about 90% of the washing machine’s energy consumption. Switching from hot to warm water can cut energy consumption by half, and switching to cold water can save even more.*
