I’m all about looking for the silver linings these days. That positive mindset is so important, right? Today we’re sharing a fantastic silver lining: 5 simple ways to save energy while working and generally spending more time at home. Small changes can make a big difference!
This post is sponsored by PG&E
If you’re a California customer of PG&E, having a flexible schedule is actually a great way to manage your energy costs.
As part of a statewide effort, many PG&E customers will be moving to the Time-of-Use (Peak Pricing 4-9 p.m. Every Day) rate plan where you can manage energy costs and help the environment by shifting what time of day you use big appliances like dishwasher and washing machines. Being a bit more thoughtful in how and when you use electricity-hungry appliances can help keep your energy costs down and create a healthier environment. Just a few small shifts in your routine can make a big difference! Every PG&E customer has the option to pick a Time-of-Use rate plan at any time.
A great rule of thumb to remember: morning to mid-day electricity use utilizes renewable resources, like solar, and cost less so it’s the best time to run appliances.
1. Try to do your dishes mid-day (a great break from work and school). Or, if you aren’t able to set aside time during daylight, set your dishwasher on its delay feature so it runs after 9 p.m.
2. From 4 to 9 p.m., reduce usage by turning off lights, computers and TVs that aren’t necessary. We love using the late afternoon hours to color and draw before getting ready for dinner.
3. After lunch (smorgasbords are a favorite around here), load the dishwasher but don’t run it until the evening. Remember to avoid that peak time of 4 to 9 p.m.
4. Do laundry at night and fold during the day. Better yet, teach your kids to do laundry midday during a break! Dot’s actually gotten pretty good at folding. I’d argue perhaps even better than most freshmen college students.
5. Charge tablets, computers, and electric cars (if you have one) during off-peaks hours (anytime before 4 p.m. or after 9 p.m.). Great way to also keep teens off their phones in the late evening hours when all devices are charged in a central location.
What ideas do you have to save energy while working at home?
Thanks to PG&E for sponsoring this post. Find out more about the PG&E Time-of-Use plan right here.