Improve your energy efficiency in the kitchen
Did you know? The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that nearly 15% of home energy usage occurs in the kitchen. But, there are easy ways to save energy with most major kitchen appliances.
▸Resist the urge to open the oven to check on a dish – the temperature will be reduced up to 25 degrees, making the oven work harder and use more energy.
▸If you’re cooking a casserole, there’s no need to preheat your oven. If you decide you must, preheat no more than 10 minutes before baking.
▸Reduce cooking time and heat loss by using pans with straight sides and flat bottoms.
▸Use the right size pan for your stovetop. A six-inch pan on an eight-inch burner wastes more than 40% of the burner’s heat. And if you’re out of open burners, don’t forget your crock pot or toaster oven.
▸Once a liquid starts boiling, lower the burner temperature and let it simmer. A quick boil doesn’t cook food any faster than a slow boil, but it does use more energy.
▸Use lids on your pots and pans to keep heat in and reduce cooking time.
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| Dishwasher When it’s time to clean up, scrape dishes instead of rinsing and be sure your dishwasher is full but not overloaded. |
Microwave Microwaves use up to 80% less energy than a conventional oven. If you’re heating up a small portion or leftovers, use your microwave to save energy and to avoid heating up the kitchen in the summertime. |
If you’re hosting family and friends over the holidays, turn down the thermostat and take advantage of all the cooking and body heat to keep your home comfortable.