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If you look around your home, you likely have more devices and equipment that require electricity than ever before. Our connected lives are increasingly dependent on more electricity to function.

As you would expect based on your family’s habits, electricity use fluctuates throughout the day. Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative must be able to provide enough electricity to meet the energy needs of all members during times of highest energy use or “peak hours.” These peak times are typically in the morning, as people start their day, and in the evening, as people return to their homes.

There are several ways members can help lower energy demand by thoughtfully timing energy-intensive activities at home. Here are few simple ways you can beat the energy peak:

• Adjust the thermostat. Move the temperature up a few degrees in summer, and bump it further up when you’re away from home for extended periods of time.
• Change your times to shower or bathe. Your water heater uses a significant amount of energy. You can reduce its energy burden by moving showering and bathing to an off-peak time or lowering the temperature on the tank.
• Cook outdoors. During summer, consider grilling outdoors to keep the oven off during peak heat days.
• Turn off lights and fans. In unoccupied rooms, turn off lights and ceiling fans. Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms.
• Postpone the use of major appliances. Move laundry loads to later in the evening or weekends. Delay running the dishwasher until well after dinner, or use the delay cycle function.
• Peak times usually range from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

When we all work together to reduce energy use during periods of high electricity demand, we can relieve pressure on the grid and save a little money along the way.

Another benefit of this time-of-use approach allows greater control over your bill. Remember, taking simple steps to save energy throughout the day and shifting energyintensive chores to off-peak hours is a smart choice.