As a home-based worker, the thought of planning my laundry schedule never crosses my mind. When the hamper fills up or I spot a grimy item I wish to wear, it’s a straightforward journey to the washing machine. In less than the time it takes to enjoy a cup of coffee, the clothes are clean and ready to wear.
However, upon researching the optimal hours for running the dishwasher and watering the lawn, I began to ponder whether my laundry routine could benefit from a touch of strategic planning.
Similar to the annual hunt for the latest must-have toy during the holiday season, energy prices are influenced by supply and demand dynamics. Many energy providers establish their pricing using a time-of-use (TOU) model, which means that the cost of electricity varies depending on the overall demand at any given time. High demand leads to higher costs, while lower demand results in reduced prices.
According to Carolyn Holran, the press secretary for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the most opportune time for laundry is when electricity use is at its lowest. “This typically corresponds to when people return home from work and engage in activities that strain the electric supply,” Holran explains to Southern Living. “Thus, the ideal time for laundry is when overall electricity consumption is low in your home and community.”
While this adjustment may not lead to a trip to a far-flung destination, shifting the use of appliances like washers, dryers, dishwashers, ovens, etc., to off-peak hours can significantly impact electricity rates over time. In many regions, energy providers offer a 40% discount on electricity during off-peak times. Experts estimate that washing and drying clothes during these hours could save around $25 annually if done a few times a week.
Holran elaborates that the price variations are due to the need for utilities to increase power generation during peak demand periods or to purchase more expensive energy from the market. These additional costs are ultimately passed on to customers.
Moreover, washing during off-peak hours offers additional benefits, as these are often the cooler parts of the day. This not only lessens the strain on the electric grid but also helps avert involuntary power cuts or brownouts. The heat and moisture generated by laundry appliances often trigger air conditioning systems to work harder, which Holran emphasizes.
With this knowledge in mind, let’s explore when it’s best to operate the washing machine and dryer outside of peak hours.
Generally, off-peak hours in most parts of the U.S. are late at night through the early morning, from after 9 p.m. to before 7 a.m., according to Holran.
While it’s understandable that this is when most of us are asleep, further analysis across the nation reveals that the best times for laundry are typically outside of the hours between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., which are the peak hours for power grid demand.
For a more precise schedule tailored to your location, Holran suggests reaching out to your local utility provider.
Beyond timing, Holran advises the following simple strategies to reduce energy costs by hundreds of dollars each year:
- Maximize loads. Unlike dryers, washers use roughly the same amount of energy regardless of the size of the load. Therefore, it’s best to run full loads whenever possible, according to Holran. She adds that there’s no need to worry about overworking your dryer, as the drum size is generally larger to accommodate clothes and promote air circulation.
- Opt for cooler temperatures. ENERGY STAR experts confirm that 90% of a washer’s energy consumption is for heating water. Holran recommends using cold water for most laundry, which is sufficient for most stains. Switching from hot to warm can cut energy use in half, and using the cold cycle further reduces consumption.
- Choose higher spin speeds. If your washer offers different spin speeds, Holran suggests selecting “high” or “extended” to reduce the drying time and energy required for clothes.
- Air-dry clothes. While it may take longer, using a drying rack or clothesline is a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. Holran points out that air-drying not only saves energy but also prolongs the life of your garments.
- Invest in smart appliances. When the time comes to upgrade your appliances, consider purchasing smart washers and dryers that can connect to an app or smart home system. If your utility employs TOU rates, these appliances can be set to run during off-peak hours automatically.
