Energy efficiency is vital to the modern consumer, and if you want to live on a tight budget, then you can actually save money by buying a brand-new energy-efficient kitchen appliance. The ability to get better tools and more energy-efficient products rather than relying upon expensive older models can actually benefit you in the long run, and ensure that you have the ability to save money without giving up any of the advantages that these kitchen appliances can offer. In order to discover which the most beneficial kitchen appliances are, you need to look at whether they can really save you energy.
Invest in a new dishwasher
If you are running a dishwasher in your home which is more than 10 to 15 years old, then you could be using five times as much water as you would running a modern energy-efficient model. Older dishwashers will also consume a lot more electricity, take longer to finish the job and are generally less energy-efficient than modern brands. Energy Star rated dishwashers with quick wash cycles are a real benefit.
Replace that old fridge/freezer
Since the fridge and freezer became a regular kitchen appliance in the 70s and 80s, they have been getting smaller and more energy-efficient by the decade. Of all the energy greedy appliances in your kitchen, by far the greediest is the freezer. The fridge is not far behind, and simply by replacing these models with new brands, you can see an instant difference. You will notice a saving of at least 10 to 20% on electricity when you swap out your decades-old freezer.
Choose a new food disposal unit
Most homes in the US choose to get rid of food waste through a garbage disposal system. If you use one of these, then you already know that it consumes a lot of energy and water. One alternative is to choose an organic recycling system which can help you to compost everything. You can even use it with meat and animal products, and it doesn’t need turning, and nor does it smell. It can provide you with compost in less than a fortnight, and is far more efficient than a waste disposal unit.
Abandon the maximum coffeemaker
Most American homes will also have a coffeemaker, and it tends to be one which uses a great deal of energy to make a full pot of coffee. While this is ideal if you run a guest home, or have a house full of lodgers, it is not the best solution if you are by yourself most of the day in the house. Instead, you should purchase a single cup coffee maker, which saves energy and water.
Cook with halogen
One of the biggest trends in the cooking world at the moment is the halogen oven. These electric style ovens use halogen lights, which heat up food much more quickly than a standard oven. It can microwave, bake, warm and cook on speed, and is also energy-efficient.
Food Dehydrator
A kitchen can really benefit from a food dehydrator. Removing water from food ensures you keep all of the nutritional benefits, yet allows you to easily store it without harm for long periods. If you ever wondered, here are some details on how to dehydrate your food.
Go For Natural Fibers
Opt to use kitchen napkins made from organic wool and/or cotton as most fibers in the kitchen are made from artificial fibers that are bad for the environment since they cannot be recycled.
Use A Dishwasher
Many people think that using electrical appliances is not a very eco-friendly idea as they consume a lot of energy. However, that is not always the case. Using a dishwasher when it’s full is actually much better than doing it on your own as it is more energy and water efficient. Once cleaning is done, leave the dishes in there to dry on their own instead of using the heater to dry them.
Go For More Eco-Friendly Detergents
Most detergents contain phosphates, which are responsible for algal growth in waterways. Others contain chlorine, which affects our lungs and skins. However, there are some detergents, though few, that don’t contain any chemicals and which are friendly to the environment.
Settle For Proper Kitchen Countertops
Most countertops in the market are made using graphite, which has to be mined from deep in the ground – and we all know that mining has adverse effects on the environment. If you want to be eco-friendlier, then consider going for countertops made from recycled glass mixed with concrete. The great thing about these countertops is that they are available in a variety of designs and colors and are extremely durable, lasting for many years with no signs of wear or tear. Alternatively, you could opt to use recycled stone chip countertops. Not only are they durable, but they look just like granite.
Replace Old Equipment
If you own equipment that’s more than ten years old, then it’s about time you considered replacing them with newer, and more energy-efficient ones.
Eco-Friendlier Cooking
If you’re shopping for a cook top for use in your kitchen, Good Housekeeping recommends that you go for an electric induction cooktop. This type of cooktop uses about half of the energy a conventional model uses. If you are not planning on replacing your old one, then consider using a microwave instead as it is quite energy-efficient as it can save up to 80% energy. TotalProtect engineers suggest that you use the oven and stove less often during warmer summer months to avoid straining your air conditioner. This way, it will be easier for you to save even more.
Worried about being more eco-friendly in your new kitchen, why not talk to us about what you want or need.
