Load management is a peak load control device. It is not used every day, only during periods of peak demand. Usually, on hot summer afternoons between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. and on cold winter mornings between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.
- Water heaters are cycled off, but are designed to keep water hot for several hours.
- Compressors on heat pumps in cooling mode and central air conditioners are cycled off for 7½ minutes each half hour of the peak demand. When the light or lights on the load management box are on, it means that power has been interrupted for those 7½ minutes. The indoor fan is not cycled allowing cooled air to be circulated.
- Heat pumps in heating mode have their auxiliary heat strips cycled off. The compressor is not cycled and will continue to heat.
City utility customers who participate in the New Bern CONNECTS Load Management Rewards program can receive up to $110 or more per year in energy credits. Monthly credits are applied to homes equipped with certain appliances such as water heaters, heat pumps, and heat strips. Credits depend on the qualifying appliances and the time of year.