Energy & money
Power is cheaper at night. Use it without thinking.
Five steps to shift your biggest loads into a time-of-use cheap window, safely.
Updated 4 October 2026
1. Find your cheap window
Check your supplier's app or bill for the off-peak hours. Every tariff is different, and some add cheap afternoon slots.
2. Shift the loads built for night
EV charging, a hot water cylinder and a home battery are designed to run while you sleep. Most chargers and batteries already have a schedule setting: use it first.
3. Washing and dishes: only while you are up
Start them when the cheap window opens if you're still awake, or use an early cheap slot.
Safety: London Fire Brigade advises: don't leave the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher on overnight and unattended.
4. Automate the nudge
An automation can start EV charging and hot water at the start of your window and send your phone a "cheap power is on" message.
5. Measure, don’t guess
An energy-monitoring plug logs kWh per cycle. Multiply by your peak and off-peak rates to see the real saving, then decide what else to shift.
Sources
Liked this? Get one plain-English smart-home idea at a time by email. Join the free newsletter.