Cooking Appliances

During the holidays, the kitchen seems to be where everyone gathers while you’re cooking your favorite meals. This quality time is also when your kitchen appliances are working overtime and become a significant portion of your overall energy usage. Learn some simple ways to cook meals more efficiently.

• Keep the oven door shut while baking your holiday pies. Each time you open the oven door (while in use), the temperature inside can drop up to 50 degrees.
  
• Let your turkey leftovers cool down before storing inside the refrigerator so it won't have to over-compensate.
  
• When simmering your cinnamon cider on top of your range, match the size of the pan to the heating element. A six-inch pan on an eight-inch burner will waste more than 40 percent of the energy.
  
• Use other appliances. When cooking a large meal, look beyond your oven at other appliances to save electricity.
  
• Use fast and efficient microwaves to heat up gravy, vegetables or even Grandma’s special rolls. They use around 50 percent less energy than conventional ovens.
  
• When the days get hectic, set up a slow cooker with a pot roast or stew and be on your way. They'll cook a whole meal for about 17 cents worth of electricity.
  
• Stir up some old fashioned memories by filling a slow cooker with apple cider and cinnamon sticks. The fragrance alone puts you in the holiday spirit, plus you'll use less energy than if you used the stove top.