One of the best ways is to spread your energy use across the hours of 5 to 9 p.m. For example, you can start your washer at 5 p.m, your dryer at 6 p.m, and then start the dishwasher after your laundry is done. Instead of using these appliances at the same time, you are now spreading your demand, which will keep your Transmission Demand Cost lower. Since we are a winter-heavy-usage community, you will need to keep this in mind when plugging in your heat tape or space heater or using electric heat to warm your home. If you run your heat tape from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can help reduce the high energy use associated with snowmelt. During the winter months, we recommend that members make the best decision when setting their thermostats to prevent pipes from freezing.