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    Why Your Winter Power Bill Is Probably Too High—And How Time-Shifted Chores Can Actually Pay You

    Why Your Winter Power Bill Is Probably Too High—And How Time-Shifted Chores Can Actually Pay You

    If your winter power bill keeps creeping up, you’re not alone—and you might be missing easy money by sticking to your old routine. Many utility companies now offer cash rewards and bill credits for shifting when you do laundry, run the dishwasher, or even charge your car. With cold-weather rates surging, a few strategic swaps can unlock surprise savings you never expected. Here’s exactly how off-peak chores can pay off, and what steps to take right now:

    1. Check If You Qualify for Time-of-Use (TOU) Plans

    Many utility companies quietly switched millions of homes to “time-of-use” rates—charging less during low-demand hours and more when the grid’s overloaded.

    In 2021, Ava Community Energy moved 70% of its 615,000 Northern California customers to time-of-use rates to encourage off-peak energy use. (American Public Power Association)

    Takeaway: Ignoring your utility’s rate schedule might be costing you more than you think.

    • Log into your utility account or call customer service: Ask if you qualify for discounted off-peak rates or special time-of-use rewards.
    • If your bill mentions TOU or “dynamic peak pricing,” you’re likely eligible.

    Action: Request info today—you could instantly qualify for lower overnight and weekend pricing.

    2. Run Big Appliances During Off-Peak Hours

    Appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers suck up major power. Moving these chores to set off-peak times can mean real money straight off your bill.

    DTE Energy’s Dynamic Peak Pricing program offers deeply discounted electricity rates from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays and all weekend—lowering the cost to run big appliances outside peak hours. (DTE Energy)

    Takeaway: Doing laundry or dishes while you sleep can unlock bonus savings.

    • Set reminder timers for after 11 p.m., or use smart plugs to automate appliance start times.
    • Double up on loads during weekends or nights, when energy is cheapest.

    Action: Shift at least one chore to the lower-priced window tonight. Check your next bill and compare.

    3. Opt-In for Bonus Days and Special Bill Credits

    Some programs pay you for reducing usage on “Critical Peak Events”—days when energy demand spikes. You’ll get notifications and, if you cut usage, get bonus credits or rewards.

    Customers on DTE’s Dynamic Peak Pricing plan get at least six hours’ notice before a bonus-payout “Critical Peak Event,” letting you plan ahead and earn.

    Takeaway: Watching for bonus alerts lets you collect surprise credits—often without any extra work.

    • Sign up for energy alerts via your utility’s website or phone app.
    • Build a quick “lights off and unplug” routine for alert evenings.

    Action: Activate alerts and check your statement for cash credits after your first event.

    4. Automate Chores With Smart Plugs or Timers

    Technology can make time-shifted power moves automatic. Once you set a schedule, you’ll never have to think about it again.

    Smart plugs can be programmed to run laundry, dishwashers, or space heaters at the cheapest hours, maximizing payout times.

    Takeaway: A $15 smart plug can pay for itself in one bill cycle if you automate big-energy chores.

    • Plug your slow cooker, fan, or washer into a programmable timer or smart outlet.
    • Download the control app for reminders and status updates.

    Action: Set up one frequent chore with a smart plug by the weekend and watch for lower bills.

    5. Check for Specialized Programs (EV Charging, A/C Cycling)

    If you have an electric vehicle or central air, special utility programs can pay out even more—for example, rewarding you for charging overnight or letting your A/C cycle at peak times.

    The DTE Smart Charge program pays up to $100 in gift cards for charging EVs in off-peak hours. Their CoolCurrents program offers up to 30% off cooling bills by cycling your A/C in summer.

    Takeaway: Your car or A/C can unlock hidden rewards without disrupting your day.

    • Ask your provider about “demand response” or “smart charging” options for EVs or cooling.
    • Sign up online—many programs have automatic cash or gift card payouts.

    Action: Register for at least one new program—even if you aren’t sure you’ll use it often.

    Bottom Line: Your Power Bill Should Be Paying You, Not the Other Way Around

    Winter costs don’t have to control your budget. Shifting just a few chores and signing up for hidden utility programs can put cash back in your pocket, month after month. Start today—ask about off-peak rewards, set a quick routine, and watch for credits on your next power bill. Why not let your daily chores work harder for you?

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