TIME IT
Many modern appliances have a delay start function. If yours does, load your dishwasher or dryer and set it to start during off-peak times.
If you’ve got a pool or spa, try setting a timer to run your pump or heating during off-peak times.
MakE the most of FLEX RATES
Learn which changes make the biggest difference, and how to make them part of your everyday routine.
SHIFT IT, SAVE IT
Getting the most out of Flex Rates takes a little effort, just like many good things in life. But small changes to your routine can add up over time. The more you can shift your electricity usage to off-peak times, the more you could save.
HOW TO GET STARTED
MAKE IT A ROUTINE
To make a bigger impact over time, build small habits into your everyday routine.
Try showering later, or change when you meal prep and do chores. Once it’s part of your routine, shifting to off-peak times will feel like second nature.
GET EVERYONE INVOLVED
Getting the family or flatmates on board can make it easier to shift your usage. Have a chat as a household about your energy use and what could be moved to off-peak times.
Talking it through can help everyone understand how small changes add up. And when everyone’s on board, it’s easier to make the most of lower rates.
HIGH ENERGY USERS
Some appliances and systems in your home use more electricity than others. Knowing which ones have the biggest impact can help you shift your usage to off-peak times.
Hot water, heating and cooling can make up to around 60% of your home’s power use*. Changing when you use them can make a bigger difference to your power bill.
Want to know how much your appliances might cost to run? Check out our appliance usage guide.
*According to EECA’s hot water, heating and cooling stats.
SMART HABITS, LOWER COSTS
SHOWER TIME
Hot water can make up a third of your energy use, so timing matters. Use hot water at the start of off-peak times to shift more of your power use. Your cylinder will then reheat after use.
Try showering later, or early in the morning.
CHARGE UP
From e.bikes and e.scooters to mobility scooters, you can power up for less.
Get ready for the weekend by charging your lawn mower and power tool batteries. Plug in during off-peak times, or set a timer so charging works seamlessly in the background.
GET COSY
Heating can make up around one-third of your home’s energy use. So shifting it to off-peak times can help you stay warm for less.
Set your heater to run before you wake up or before you get home, so your house feels cosy.
Most modern heat pumps have built-in timers, which makes this easy.
FUEL UP
Charge smarter by charging your EV during off-peak times. Make it easy by setting a timer in your EV’s app, if it has this feature.
If you’ve got a smart charger, you can set it to charge automatically at off-peak times. Come home, plug in, and let your EV charge while you sleep.
Have a question?
The right plan depends on your lifestyle and how you use power. Flex Rates could suit you if you can shift some of your electricity use to off-peak times. Or if your current routine already fits those times. If your routine is less flexible, Flat Rates could be a better choice.
Enjoy off-peak rates every day of the week.
Off-peak: 11am - 4.59pm and 9.30pm - 6.59am.
Peak: 7am - 10.59am and 5pm - 9.29pm.
You’ll move onto a new set of rates with Flex Rates. That means a higher rate during peak times, and a lower off-peak rate.
If you're already with us, you can check your rates in My Account via our app or website. New to Mercury? You can check out your rates via our website.
The more you shift your electricity usage to off-peak times, when rates are lower, the more you can potentially save.
For example, running appliances like dishwashers and washing machines during off-peak times can help reduce your electricity bill.
Yes, you can change between Flex Rates and Flat Rates in My Account via our app or website. You can only choose one electricity plan at a time and can change plans once per billing cycle. You might not be able to return to your previous plan.
Your new plan will start at the beginning of your next billing period. We’ll email you to confirm when your new plan starts.
Flex Rates are available to customers with a communicating smart meter. Most properties already have this type of meter installed. However, some meter configurations may not be eligible. If you don’t see Flex Rates as an option under Change Plan in My Account via our app or website, get in touch. We’ll check if we can set it up for you.