Tips from SDG&E
Last updated 7/18/2023 at 12:41pm
Shift your use: When possible, use heat-generating appliances, such as washers, dryers and dishwashers, in the morning or at night. On a Time-of-Use plan, save on your bill by shifting outside the on-peak hours of 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cool down with a fan: Use ceiling and tabletop fans to cool off, and leave the thermostat at a higher temperature. Turn fans off when you leave a room as fans cool people, not rooms.
Block the sun: During the heat of the day, cover windows to block the sun’s heat. If you can, open windows at night and in the early morning to let in cool air.
Use small appliances: Instead of the oven, use small appliances such as a microwave, toaster oven or slow cooker. They use less energy and won’t add much heat to your home.
Power down: Switch off your electronic devices, such as computers and coffee pots, when not in use. Keep in mind, electronics in standby mode still draw power. Use a power strip to power down devices and appliances at one time.
Precool your home before 4 p.m .: Take advantage of lower priced energy by setting your A/C between 68º and 74º F before 4 p.m. During on-peak hours of 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., adjust your thermostat to 78º, health permitting.
Check your filter: Check your A/C’s filter every one to two months, and keep your clothes dryer vents and lint filters clean. Dirty filters cause your system to work harder, which wastes energy.
Take advantage of super off-peak hours: On our most popular Time-of-Use pricing plan, TOU-DR1, energy is priced lowest during the super off-peak hours of 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weekdays and before 2 p.m. on weekends and holidays.