A better time to run it: making time-of-use work.
You do not always need to use less electricity to pay less for its energy component. Sometimes the useful change is when you use it.
Read your actual schedule
Identify peak and off-peak periods on the current utility schedule. Check weekends, holidays and seasonal changes. The labels are not identical across utilities.
Find a genuinely flexible load
Some EV charging, laundry and dishwashing can move to a different time without disrupting your day. Essential heating, cooling, safety and medical equipment should be treated according to their requirements.
Compare the same energy in both scenarios
The time-of-use calculator uses the same monthly kWh before and after shifting. Savings equal the shifted kWh multiplied by the difference between peak and off-peak energy prices. Fixed charges are unchanged in this comparison.
Check the whole plan
An attractive overnight price can coexist with a higher evening price. Review the rest of the home’s usage before selecting a tariff. A utility usage download can be more useful than a single total.
Put the idea into numbers.
Open the calculatorHAUSE Energy · Reviewed September 8, 2026. For current program rules or prices, use your utility’s published documents and the regional source guide.