6 appliances not to use during peak demand events
The goal of a peak demand event is to reduce your electricity use when demand on the grid is at its highest — helping to prevent overloads and keep the system running smoothly. That means you should avoid using certain power-hungry household appliances during this timeframe. Below are six examples along with a few alternate solutions in the event of a cleaning emergency!
1. Washing machine
Ideally, try to run your loads outside of peak demand events. Got a laundry emergency? Try a quick hand wash in cold water.
Good to know: Washing with hot water uses up to 18 times more electricity than cold water. In fact, 80% to 90% of the energy used to wash clothes goes toward heating the water.
2. Water heater (shower)
If your schedule means you have to shower during peak demand events, consider switching to a low-flow showerhead. It can reduce hot water use by up to 40%.
Good to know: Hilo now offers a smart water heater controller — available free of charge! It lets you use hot water in moderation during peak events without drawing electricity.
3. Electric vehicle charger
Your vehicle’s mobile app makes it easy to program a charging schedule — which makes avoiding charging during peak demand events.
Good to know: Hilo offers an EV charging solution that can automatically shift charging to after peak events. Definitely worth checking out!
4. Dryer
During a peak event, air-dry your clothes in a well-ventilated space — just like you already do for delicate knits. Or jot yourself a quick reminder to run the dryer later!
Good to know: Wait until you have a full load before using the dryer. One large drying cycle uses less energy than several small ones.
5. Stove
Using the oven or stovetop during a peak demand event can reduce your energy savings. Traditional ovens are particularly energy inefficient when they preheat. If needed, the microwave is a good backup.
Good to know: A slow cooker also uses far less energy than a conventional oven. They help you save up to 80% of the electricity used by a stove.
6. Dishwasher
Run it before or after the peak demand event. Can’t do without your favourite plate? Wash it by hand.
Good to know: Avoid washing too many dishes by hand during a peak event. Hot water draws on your water heater, which increases energy use.
Small gestures add up
- Refrigerators are always on! To avoid overusing electricity, refrain from unnecessarily opening the door, overloading your fridge or placing warm items inside it.
- A freezer with frost build-up consumes much more energy than it should. Make sure you defrost it regularly.
- Consider not putting your computer or TV in standby mode! In Canada, standby mode use totals about 5.4 TWh: equivalent to the annual power consumption of 300,000 households.
Want more tips on how to optimize savings during peak events? Check out our 5 golden rules.
Want to lower your electricity bill while enhancing your comfort? Calculate the savings you could make with Hilo.