Conserving energy is essential for saving money, improving the environment, and guaranteeing a better future. If you’re concerned about your energy usage, begin saving energy at the heart of your home-your kitchen. Kitchens consume massive amounts of energy between cooking meals and cleaning dishes, increasing your electric expenses.
Instantly save energy and money in your home by transforming your kitchen’s energy usage. Here are 7 ways to create an energy-efficient kitchen:
1. Change Lights
Change your kitchen lighting to reduce your home’s energy usage. Kitchens are ideal places for families to gather together, meaning kitchen lights remain on for long periods of time. Consider simply switching your light bulbs to energy-efficient models to conserve energy every time you flip a switch.
Energy-efficient light bulbs, including LEDs and CFLs, use about 75% less energy than regular models and last up to 12 times longer. Purchasing energy-efficient light bulbs cost more initially; however, the energy conservation and long-lasting value save you more money over time.
2. Install Low-Flow Faucets
Install energy-efficient faucets to simultaneously save water and energy. Kitchen sinks waste massive amounts of water and energy by frequently heating water for scrubbing dishes and washing hands. Use a low-flow faucet to decrease water usage whenever you turn on the faucet.
Low-flow faucets automatically use a lesser amount of water using an aerator, which slows down and reduces the flow of water. Additionally, aerators add air to water streams to create better water pressure, meaning you won’t notice a difference. Purchase a low-flow faucet to reduce your water usage by almost 60% more than standard fixtures.
3. Unplug Appliances
Unplug your kitchen appliances to avoid careless energy usage. Kitchens are full of appliances draining power even when turned off. Stop spending money on wasted energy by unplugging your unused appliances.
Identify and unplug your energy-draining appliances, usually coffee pots, toaster ovens, and microwaves, to avoid spending up to $100 to $200 dollars every year on unchecked appliances. Additionally, consider using a power strip or smart plug to easily unplug and control your energy usage.
4. Cook Smarter
Cook smarter to consistently create an energy-efficient kitchen. Discover numerous methods for forming smarter cooking habits, including:
- Cleaning your stove to properly conduct and reflect heat
- Using burners matching your pot or pans size to conserve energy
- Placing lids on pots and pans to retain as much heat as possible
- Defrosting food in advance to reduce cooking time
- Choosing ceramic or glass dishes for the oven to reduce temperatures and cooking times
Research various cooking tips for transforming your kitchen’s overall energy usage.
5. Use Appliances Wisely
Use your kitchen appliances wisely to drastically reduce energy expenses. Appliances account for 13% of a home’s energy bill. Use your major appliances less to drastically alter your energy usage and expenses.
Primarily, using appliances wisely involves mindful habits, such as keeping your oven and refrigerator doors closed. Additionally, choose appliances requiring less energy when possible. For example, cook using your microwave or toaster oven rather than your oven. Lastly, consider only running your dishwasher once it’s full to decrease wasted water and energy. Learn different methods for using your appliances wisely to establish an energy-efficient kitchen.
6. Purchase Energy-Efficient Appliances
Purchase energy-efficient appliances to easily conserve energy. Search for quality appliances featuring an Energy Star label to guarantee you regularly use less energy. Energy-efficient appliances cost more upfront, but you’ll save more money over time on your monthly electricity bill.
7. Switch to Alternative Energy
Switch to alternative energy to significantly alter your home’s energy usage. Traditional forms of electricity, specifically fossil fuels, emit carbon dioxide and other harmful gases, polluting the atmosphere and causing global warming. Alternative forms of energy, including solar, wind, and water, are clean, renewable resources generated without releasing dangerous gases and pollutants.
Solar power is the most popular alternative energy for homeowners. Generating solar power involves converting sunlight into electricity using solar panels. Homeowners access solar power by either installing a solar power system or joining a community solar project.
Community solar refers to a group of people sharing electricity generated using solar energy. A third party builds a solar farm and offers members of the community an opportunity to lease energy. Solar power created is delivered to the power grid and distributed by the utility company to homes and businesses subscribed to the service. Learn more about how community solar works to understand the financial advantages of going solar by bypassing installation costs and joining a shared solar project instead.
Create an energy-efficient kitchen by following these 7 ways for success.