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The hub of most homes, the kitchen is where we typically use most electricity. The lighting level in the kitchen is usually higher than in most other areas of the house and there is usually a large heat output in the kitchen from electrical equipment, especially cookers. We can save a lot of energy and make plenty of savings by using existing appliances more efficiently and changing our ways a just little around the kitchen.
- Need heating water for cooking? Use the electric kettle instead of a saucepan on the hob.
- A slow casserole, pressure cooker, insulated deep fat fryer or microwave oven will cook food in an energy efficient way.
- Toast bread in a toaster instead of under the grill.
- Do not use the oven to cook a single dish - bake a few items at the same time and freeze them for later use if necessary.
- Remember that a full load of washing is more energy efficient than a half a load.
- Stop and open the dishwasher before the drying cycle and let the dishes dry naturally.
- Look for the energy label when you are buying a new laundry or refrigeration appliance. Buy A or B rated appliances where possible.
- Fluorescent tubes are much more energy efficient than traditional tungsten filament bulbs, particularly the newer slim 26 mm tubes.
- Where fluorescent tubes are not suitable, install CFL’s.
- Make the most of ESB Customer Supply's Nightsaver Tariff for any electrical appliances that can be run at night. For safety reasons, appliances should not be left totally unattended while operating.
- Installing a thermostatic radiator valve on the kitchen radiator will allow the heat output to be varied with demand.
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