Using Energy Wisely During Peak Times

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You may wonder – why does an electric utility want me to reduce my consumption or lower my bill?  The answer is that Cotton Electric is different because we are a cooperative, owned by you – the members.  Our goal is to provide power at the lowest possible cost for everyone while encouraging energy efficiency.

During the time frame specified, members are asked to use energy wisely and follow these guidelines:

1. Use appliances like clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers and other electric devices sparingly.  If you must use them, try to limit usage to one appliance at a time.
2. Appliances that are controlled by thermostats like heaters, ovens and grills should not be turned on all at once.  These appliances require more electricity when heating up than during ongoing operation.  Staggering the start up times by 15 to 20 minutes will help reduce your demand.
3. Delay using hot water so that the demand for your water heater is less during the peak times, especially if you have a tankless water heater which can account for up to 36 kW of demand.
4. Set the thermostat on your air conditioning equipment or heat pump to 78 degrees during the peak time frame.  Another option is to increase the setting on your thermostat by two to three degrees during the peak time.
5. Learn more about your home’s overall energy efficiency and find sources of energy waste.  Take the Energy Efficient Home Tour at www.touchstoneenergysavers.com to learn valuable energy savings tips and download a free Home Energy Savings Guide.
6. If you’re purchasing new appliances or electronic devices, look for ones with the Energy Star rating.  Visit the Department of Energy’s web site at www.energystar.gov to find out more.