Your Peak-Hours Checklist

BEFORE
3 P.M.

• Close blinds and curtains on sunny windows

• Pre-cool your home a few degrees

• Finish laundry early if possible 

• Run the dishwasher before peak hours

• Change or check HVAC filters 

• Use smaller appliances instead of the oven

FROM
3 to 7 P.M.

• Raise thermostat 1–2 degrees if comfortable

• Use ceiling fans totay cooler

• Keep exterior doors closed as much as possible

• Avoid running multiple large appliances at once

• Limit oven and dryer use

AFTER
7 P.M.

• Run laundry and dishwasher loads

• Use larger appliances later in the evening

• Open blinds once direct sunlight fades

• Let your home cool naturally overnight if temperatures allow

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1. Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms

2. West-facing windows collect the most afternoon heats

3. Dishwashers release heat into your kitchen

4. Ovens and dryers increase indoor heat

5. Air leaks let cooled air escape all summer long

6. Shade can help reduce cooling costs

7. Dirty HVAC filters reduce airflow

8. Heat builds up in the attic, walls, and windows.

A Smarter Way to Stay Cool

Smart thermostats can automatically adjust to peak summer heat

Smart thermostats can help reduce energy use by automatically adjusting temperatures throughout the day — especially during the hottest summer hours.

One common strategy is “pre-cooling,” where your thermostat cools the home slightly earlier in the afternoon before peak heat arrives. During the late afternoon and early evening, the thermostat can then ease back a degree or two while helping maintain comfort.

Even small temperature adjustments can help reduce how hard your cooling system works during the hottest part of the day.