Summer Savings Tips for Hourly Pricing Participants
For hourly pricing participants, shifting electricity usage during summer months – from higher priced times to lower priced times – can help manage costs. As a general rule of thumb, to manage summer electricity costs, reduce your usage between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays, particularly on hot days, and shift some of your usage to nights and weekends.
Air Conditioning
Change your thermostat to a warmer setting when electricity prices are high and when you are away from home. Set window air conditioners to the low or “energy-saver” setting, or turn them off when electricity prices are high. To stay cool and cut costs, pre-cool your home at night when electricity prices tend to be low.
Laundry
Wash your laundry in cold water and when electricity prices are lower. You’ll save on water heating and electricity. Make sure the dryer doesn’t run longer than needed, or use a clothes line or drying rack to avoid spending a dime on energy.
Kitchen
Avoid using electric ovens and stoves during high price times. A microwave will heat small portions more efficiently. Enjoy no-cook meals or grill outside to avoid heating up the kitchen on hot days. Run the dishwasher when electricity prices are lower, use the energy-saver or no-heat dry setting, and only run full loads of dishes.
Electronics
Charge devices such as cell phones, tablets, and cordless tools at night when electricity prices are lower. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing electronics and appliances. Unplug electronics that are not in use or use a power strip to avoid wasted “standby” power.
Workshops and Webinars to Help You Save
We’re also offering summer workshops and webinars for more tips on managing electricity use and costs. These presentations may be particularly helpful for new hourly pricing participants. Click below for dates and details:
- Power Smart Pricing workshops and webinars
- ComEd Residential Real-Time Pricing workshops and webinars
Click here to download seasonal energy guides for ComEd Residential Real-Time Pricing and Ameren Illinois Power Smart Pricing.
