[ January-February 2008 – Choose a section ] ENERGY STAR Household Appliance Program Power-hungry Appliance Meter Reading Electronic Thermostats Peak Consumption Banish Humidity and Drafts Account holder / Proxy New bill The Socket Twins

			Peak consumption refers to the time periods when electricity consumption is at its height. Electricity consumption varies throughout the day and throughout the year. During winter cold snaps, for example, when the mercury plunges to -25ºC or lower for several days in a row, the Hydro-Québec power system is working to the max, especially during peak hours: 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. What you can do: Play your part, by getting into these simple habits: Lower the thermostat and put on a sweater Only use the dishwasher, clothes washer or clothes dryer after peak hours Take showers or baths outside peak hours, whenever possible Use a timer to reduce use of outdoor lighting Turn off lights and electronics when no one is in the room With these simple measures, you do your part toward reducing energy consumption and giving peace of mind to everyone during extremely cold periods.