Best Times To Use Energy Intensive Appliances In Your Home (In Toronto)

As energy costs continue to rise, homeowners in Toronto are looking for ways to reduce their monthly electricity bills. One way to do this is to use energy-intensive appliances at the right time of day. In this article, we’ll discuss the best times to use energy-intensive appliances in your home in Toronto, helping you to save money on your electricity bills.

The Time of Use (TOU) electricity rates in Toronto are divided into three periods:

1. Off-Peak: This period has the lowest electricity rates and typically runs from 7 pm to 7 am during weekdays and all day on weekends and statutory holidays.
2. Mid-Peak: This period has medium electricity rates and typically runs from 11 am to 5 pm on weekdays.
3. On-Peak: This period has the highest electricity rates and typically runs from 7 am to 11 am and from 5 pm to 7 pm on weekdays.

By planning when you use energy-intensive appliances, you can save money on your electricity bills. Here are the best times to use these appliances:

1. Washing Machines: Use your washing machine during off-peak hours. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also reduce the strain on the electricity grid during peak hours.
2. Dishwashers: Use your dishwasher during off-peak hours. This is an energy-intensive appliance, so using it during off-peak hours will help you save money on your electricity bills.
3. Dryers: Use your dryer during off-peak hours. Dryers consume a lot of energy, so using them during off-peak hours will help you save money on your electricity bills.
4. Electric Ovens: Use your electric oven during off-peak hours. Electric ovens use a lot of energy, so using them during off-peak hours will help you save money on your electricity bills.
5. Air Conditioners: Use your air conditioner during mid-peak and off-peak hours. This will help you save money on your electricity bills while still keeping your home cool.
6. Pool Pumps: Use your pool pump during off-peak hours. Pool pumps are energy-intensive, so using them during off-peak hours will help you save money on your electricity bills.

In addition to the time of day, there are other ways to save energy and reduce your electricity bills:

1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Energy-efficient appliances consume less energy, which means lower electricity bills. Consider upgrading to Energy Star-certified appliances.
2. Use Power Strips: Power strips can help reduce standby power usage, which is when appliances consume energy even when they’re turned off.
3. Unplug Appliances: Appliances still consume energy even when they’re turned off. Unplug appliances when they’re not in use to reduce your electricity bills.

In conclusion, using energy-intensive appliances during off-peak hours is an effective way to reduce your electricity bills. By planning when you use these appliances, you can save money while still enjoying the convenience they provide. Additionally, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, using power strips, and unplugging appliances when not in use can also help you save energy and reduce your electricity bills.