Saving Energy in the Kitchen
At KREMC, we know our members are always looking for ways to save energy and reduce their monthly electric bill and carbon footprint. When it comes to energy efficiency, the kitchen is an excellent place to start. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you make your kitchen more electrically efficient:
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances: One of the best ways to improve your kitchen's electric efficiency is to invest in energy-efficient appliances. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR® label, which indicates that they have met specific energy-efficiency standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. These appliances use less energy, which means lower electricity bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
- Use your oven and stove wisely: Your oven and stove are among the most energy-intensive appliances in your kitchen. To use them more efficiently, make sure to preheat your oven only when necessary and avoid opening the oven door frequently. Use the right size burner for the pots and pans you're cooking with to avoid wasting energy. And if you have a gas stove, make sure the flames are blue and not yellow, which indicates inefficient combustion.
- Optimize your fridge and freezer: Your fridge and freezer are also major energy consumers in your kitchen. Keep your fridge and freezer at the right temperature, between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit for the fridge and 0 degrees Fahrenheit for the freezer. Make sure to clean the coils on the back of your fridge regularly to improve its efficiency. Check the seals on the doors to prevent leaks. It’s also smart to position the appliance away from heat sources (ovens, dishwashers, or even sunny spots in the room) because they force it to work harder. And always let your leftovers cool down before placing them in the fridge.
- Use small appliances when possible: Small kitchen appliances like toaster ovens, microwaves, and slow cookers use less energy than their larger counterparts. If you're cooking for one or two people, consider using a smaller appliance instead of your oven or stove.
- Be mindful of your water usage: Finally, be mindful of your water usage in the kitchen. Using less hot water means less energy used to heat that water. So, try to use cold water whenever possible, and make sure to fix any leaks or drips in your faucets or pipes.
As you can see, there are several ways to improve the electric efficiency of your home kitchen. By upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, using your oven and stove wisely, optimizing your fridge and freezer, using small appliances when possible, and being mindful of your water usage, you can make a tremendous difference in the overall efficiency of your kitchen and home.
To dive deeper into the ways you can make your home more energy efficient, visit our Home Energy Advisor. There you can create your KREMC home energy profile and receive a home energy report with personalized savings tips!