Slash your energy bills by 40% with this genius washing machine hack—find out when to use it!
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In today’s world, where every penny counts, especially for those of us enjoying the golden years, finding ways to cut down on expenses is more important than ever.
One of the biggest drains on our monthly budget? Energy bills.
But what if we told you that a simple change could slash your energy costs by up to 40%? It’s not a big, expensive renovation—it’s all about timing!
Here’s a little-known secret: utility companies charge different rates for electricity and water based on the time of day.
This is called "dynamic pricing." During the day, when everyone’s active, the prices are high.
But at night, when most people are asleep, prices drop. By simply running your washing machine at night, you can take advantage of those lower rates and start saving.
It’s an easy switch that can lead to big savings over time.
The night owl’s advantage
This clever tip comes from Maisha, a social media user who learned it from her mother in Nevada. After receiving a brochure from their utility provider, Maisha’s family discovered that washing clothes at night could save up to 50% on energy costs. And it works!
Personal finance expert Melanie Musson also confirms that using electricity during off-peak hours can cut costs. Just make sure your utility provider offers a Time of Use (TOU) plan and sign up to take advantage of these lower rates.
The 7-10 rule for thermostat settings
In addition to washing clothes at night, you can also save money on heating and cooling by following the US Department of Energy’s "7-10 rule." In the winter, set your thermostat 7-10 degrees lower (68 degrees when you’re home and 60-65 degrees when you’re away or asleep).
In the summer, set it 7-10 degrees higher (78 degrees when you’re home, 82 degrees when you’re asleep). By doing this, you could save about 10% on your heating and cooling bills—around $1,800 a year!
Source: TikTok / @maisha_thealchemist.
Also read: Could this favorite American food be fueling rising dementia rates?
An extra perk for electric vehicle owners
For those who own an electric vehicle (EV), charging it during off-peak hours can result in significant savings.
EVs use a lot of electricity, and charging them at night, when rates are lower, can make a big difference in your energy bill.
Making the switch to dynamic pricing
Before you adjust your washing habits, reach out to your utility provider to see if they offer a TOU plan and how to enroll.
Once you’re set up, you can start planning all of your energy-heavy activities—like laundry and charging your car—during those lower-cost hours.
Saving money can make a huge difference, especially for those over 60. By making these small adjustments—like washing clothes at night and adjusting your thermostat settings—you’ll be able to enjoy more financial freedom and peace of mind!
Related articles:
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Neglect this washing machine part and pay the price—Clean it now before it's too late!
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We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried washing clothes during off-peak hours? Or do you have other energy-saving tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s help each other save money and live better!
Read next: Say goodbye to microwave messes with this mind-blowing cleaning trick you'll wish you discovered earlier!
One of the biggest drains on our monthly budget? Energy bills.
But what if we told you that a simple change could slash your energy costs by up to 40%? It’s not a big, expensive renovation—it’s all about timing!
Here’s a little-known secret: utility companies charge different rates for electricity and water based on the time of day.
This is called "dynamic pricing." During the day, when everyone’s active, the prices are high.
Is your washing machine running up your energy bills? Learn how adjusting the timing can save you money! Image Source: Pexels / cottonbro studio.
But at night, when most people are asleep, prices drop. By simply running your washing machine at night, you can take advantage of those lower rates and start saving.
It’s an easy switch that can lead to big savings over time.
The night owl’s advantage
This clever tip comes from Maisha, a social media user who learned it from her mother in Nevada. After receiving a brochure from their utility provider, Maisha’s family discovered that washing clothes at night could save up to 50% on energy costs. And it works!
Personal finance expert Melanie Musson also confirms that using electricity during off-peak hours can cut costs. Just make sure your utility provider offers a Time of Use (TOU) plan and sign up to take advantage of these lower rates.
The 7-10 rule for thermostat settings
In addition to washing clothes at night, you can also save money on heating and cooling by following the US Department of Energy’s "7-10 rule." In the winter, set your thermostat 7-10 degrees lower (68 degrees when you’re home and 60-65 degrees when you’re away or asleep).
In the summer, set it 7-10 degrees higher (78 degrees when you’re home, 82 degrees when you’re asleep). By doing this, you could save about 10% on your heating and cooling bills—around $1,800 a year!
Source: TikTok / @maisha_thealchemist.
Also read: Could this favorite American food be fueling rising dementia rates?
An extra perk for electric vehicle owners
For those who own an electric vehicle (EV), charging it during off-peak hours can result in significant savings.
EVs use a lot of electricity, and charging them at night, when rates are lower, can make a big difference in your energy bill.
Making the switch to dynamic pricing
Before you adjust your washing habits, reach out to your utility provider to see if they offer a TOU plan and how to enroll.
Once you’re set up, you can start planning all of your energy-heavy activities—like laundry and charging your car—during those lower-cost hours.
Saving money can make a huge difference, especially for those over 60. By making these small adjustments—like washing clothes at night and adjusting your thermostat settings—you’ll be able to enjoy more financial freedom and peace of mind!
Related articles:
Follow this simple step to prevent costly washing machine damage
Neglect this washing machine part and pay the price—Clean it now before it's too late!
Are detergent pods a ticking time bomb in your home? Expert reveals shocking truth!
We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried washing clothes during off-peak hours? Or do you have other energy-saving tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s help each other save money and live better!
Read next: Say goodbye to microwave messes with this mind-blowing cleaning trick you'll wish you discovered earlier!
