Written by Energy Saving: Time-of-Use Night‑Owl” Hacks
For those with time-of-use billing, here’s a toolkit of “night‑owl” hacks to help you shift heavy appliance use into off‑peak hours, while keeping your sleep (and sanity) intact.
1. Use Built‑In Delayed‑Start Functions
Many modern dishwashers and washing machines come with a delayed‑start or “end‑by” timer.
- How it works: Load your machine, select “Delay” for 4 – 8 hours, and let it run after midnight when rates (and grid strain) are lowest.
- Why it helps: No extra gadgets; you avoid peak‑hour pricing simply by pressing a button.
Pro tip: Double‑check your owner’s manual—most units tucked into rental kitchens feature this basic function.
2. Automate with Smart Plugs
Turn any appliance into an off‑peak weapon using a ~$20 smart plug:
- Plug in your coffee maker, slow cooker, dehumidifier—or even that ancient crock‑pot.
- Schedule it via the companion app to switch on at, say, 2 a.m., and off at 4 a.m.
- Relax: your brew’s ready by sunrise, and you’ve banked cheaper kilowatts.
Evidence: Smart‑plug scheduling can slice energy costs by automating laundry or other chores during low‑rate windows.
3. Deploy a Quiet Robot Vacuum
Why wrestle with a noisy canister at 3 a.m. when you can:
- Choose a model under 60 db (about the volume of a normal conversation).
- Program it to run at 1 a.m. via its app or remote—floors get clean, you stay asleep.
4. Sound‑Proof & Stabilize
Even the quietest washer can rumble if it’s loose on the floor.
- Anti‑Vibration pads or mats: Place neoprene or rubber pads under each foot to decouple vibrations from your subfloor.
- Sound‑Deadening: Peel‑and‑stick acoustic mats and solid‑core door seals to trap airborne noise.
This combo can reduce both structural (vibrational) and airborne (motor/drain) noise
5. Mask with White‑Noise
If a low‑hum still sneaks through:
White‑Noise Machine or App: A gentle fan‑or‑rain track can cover up residual clatter. (It works. I used to live above my store, next to a bar.) Terrible for sleeping, but wonderful material for my next incarnation as a comedian.
Do you have any other time-of-Use energy “Night‑Owl” Hacks