How to Make the Most of Peak and Off-Peak Electricity Rates

With energy bills climbing, finding ways to reduce your electricity costs can make a big difference. One of the smartest strategies is to understand peak and off-peak times, then make small changes in when you use electricity. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of these times to keep your energy costs down.

What Are Peak and Off-Peak Times?

Electricity providers charge more during peak hours—usually times when most people are using power, like evenings and late afternoons. Off-peak hours, on the other hand, fall when overall demand is low, such as late nights or early mornings. Rates are often lowest during these off-peak times, making it cheaper to run certain appliances.

The exact times and rates can vary, so check with your provider or energy plan details. For some plans, there are also shoulder periods—a middle ground between peak and off-peak rates. Making even a few small changes to use electricity during these cheaper times can noticeably reduce your bills.

Easy Ways to Maximise Off-Peak Hours

Shifting some activities to off-peak times is simple once you know where to start. Here are some practical ways to get the most out of lower-cost hours:

• Laundry and Dishwashing
  Setting your washing machine and dishwasher to run overnight or early in the morning is a quick win. Most modern appliances have delayed start functions, so you can load them up after dinner, set the timer, and let them run during off-peak hours.

• Heating and Cooling
  Running your heater or air conditioner during off-peak times can significantly reduce energy costs. Try pre-cooling or pre-heating your home before peak hours start. This way, you’ll have a comfortable home without racking up peak-time costs.

• Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging
  If you own an EV, charging overnight can make a big difference to your power bill. Plug in before bed, set your vehicle’s timer (if it has one), and let it charge during the cheapest hours.

• Hot Water Systems
  Many hot water systems allow you to schedule heating during off-peak times, especially if they have a separate meter. Ask your energy provider if this is an option with your plan—it’s an easy way to cut down costs.

Do You Need a Smart Meter?

A smart meter gives you a clear picture of your electricity usage in real time. It tracks exactly when and how much power you’re using, helping you see the impact of any changes you make. Smart meters also make it possible to switch to time-of-use plans with peak and off-peak pricing, which can be ideal for those with flexible schedules or those who can adjust usage to lower-cost times.

If you’re interested in smart meters or time-of-use plans, feel free to reach out to Watts Needed; we can help you get set up or answer any questions about metering and timing options.

Choosing the Right Plan for Your Household

Not every home is suited to time-of-use plans, especially if your household routine aligns with peak times (like early evenings). But if you can manage to run some appliances during off-peak hours, a time-of-use plan can offer real savings. On the other hand, single-rate plans can be better if you need to use most of your electricity during peak times.

When deciding, think about your household’s schedule. If you’re unsure, contact your provider or use an energy comparison tool like Energy Made Easy to weigh up the costs.

A Few Simple Habits to Save Big

Saving on your energy bill doesn’t mean making huge changes. A few small adjustments can go a long way:

• Set timers on washing machines, dishwashers, and other large appliances to start during off-peak times.
• Charge phones and devices overnight rather than during peak hours.
• Use heating or cooling systems smartly—run them in advance of peak times and let the residual effect maintain comfort levels.
• Shift tasks like vacuuming or running the clothes dryer to weekends if possible, as some plans have off-peak rates on weekends.

With a few simple changes, you can start to see a difference in your electricity bills. If you have any questions or want to know more about optimising your home’s electricity use, the team at Watts Needed is here to help. You can get in touch with us at info@wattsneeded.com.au or call (02) 5115 0135.