Appliance Cycling status page
How does Appliance Cycling work?
When you signed up for the program, a contractor installed a small, radio-activated control switch on or near your outdoor central air conditioner.
If the demand for electricity escalates to a critical point, a peak alert is announced. We'll turn on the radio signal that activates the switch on your air conditioner. The receiver will be activated to cycle the outdoor cooling unit according to the program option you elected.
The switch will cycle your air conditioner while the furnace fan continues to circulate the cooler, drier air already in your home. You'll stay cool and comfortable. Your electric bill stays low and the environment can breathe a little easier.
The program runs from May to September, but dates vary in each state. Cycling events typically occur Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and never on weekends or holidays.
What are peak periods?
Peak periods occur when temperatures are forecasted to be 90 degrees or above and/or electric demand is expected to reach 90% of peak. Peak demand times usually occur between 1 and 7 p.m., but they may also happen at other times of the day.
Will I notice a temperature difference?
Your outdoor unit will turn on and off when your air conditioner is cycling. However, your furnace fan will continue to operate as long as the thermostat fan switch is in the “auto” or “on” position and the thermostat calls for cooling.
Temperature and humidity levels may increase slightly but not enough to make a noticeable difference.
How long will my appliances be off?
Central air conditioners will be cycled every 15 minutes on and off in Iowa. Cycling will take place no longer than six hours in one day. Cycling typically occurs 1 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and never on weekends or holidays. Your furnace fan will continue to operate as long as the thermostat fan switch is in the “auto” or “on” position and the thermostat is calling for cooling.
Water heaters are shut off during the entire control period, not to exceed six hours per day.
What do the lights on the cycling switch mean?
A red light indicates the switch has received a signal to cycle. Also, if power to the switch has been interrupted – such as a breaker being shut off and turned back on – the red light will come on and go back off within five minutes. This is a safety precaution that all the switches have.
A green light (solid or blinking) should be on all the time and is a communication light. This light will not affect the air conditioner’s ability to run or cool.
What happens if I move?
The cycling switch is the property of Alliant Energy and remains installed on the premises. Please contact us at 1-800-ALLIANT (800-255-4268) to let us know you are moving.
