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1. What is Load Management?

Load Management is an energy-saving program that temporarily reduces the energy consumption in your home during peak load periods. We start by installing a small device at your residence and connect it to your air conditioner, water heater, heat strips, or all three - as long as they are powered by electricity. A radio signal is activated during the few times that we experience a high demand for power. Those times would be during extreme heat (in the high 90's) or extreme cold (less than 28 degrees Fahrenheit). Ultimately, this brief interruption should not be noticed by the user and reduces your power usage, which lowers your bill. This means you will receive credits back on your bill! That's a double savings!

2. When and how long is the Load Management Interruption?

Heat Strips: December through March - typically between 7 am and 9 am, and usually interrupted for 1 hour.

Water Heater: January through December - typically between 3 pm and 6 pm, and usually interrupted for 3 to 4 hours in summer months and 1 hour in winter months.

Air Conditioner: June through September - typically between 3 pm and 6 pm, interrupted intermittently for 3 to 4 hours.

3. Will I feel a difference in my heating / cooling or water temperature using Load Management?

Most customers report not noticing any difference in comfort when Load Management is connected to their home. For example, your water heater may be cycled off during the late afternoon (3 pm to 6 pm), but again only on high load days. So, it may only be turned off a few dozen times during the summer and winter. And most people are not using the water heater (taking showers or washing clothes in hot water) during the 3 pm to 6 pm time period. And most water heaters retain heat for some time after the power is off, so even if you take a shower, the water should still be hot. If you do experience a problem though, call us at 919-553-1530 so we can help determine what the problem is.

4. Who do I call if I think there may be a problem with my Load Management Device?

Call the Town of Clayton Electric Department at 919-553-1530 if you suspect your Load Management (LM) Device may be defective or if you experience any problems with electric appliances that are connected to the LM Program (Air Conditioner, Water Heater, or Heat Strips).  Call us before calling a service technician.  Allowing us the opportunity to inspect the LM equipment first may prevent you from incurring unwanted HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) and plumbing service fees.