Saving Energy in the Kitchen Helps

Saving energy in the kitchen helps

Given Louisianas emphasis on good eating, we probably spend more time than other Americans in the kitchen. The kitchen is also one of the biggest energy users in the house, according to a recent article in National Wildlife Magazine.

The magazine suggests that just a few small changes in how we use our kitchens can mean big energy savings not only for our households, but the country at large. Thats a particularly good thing given recent spikes in energy prices in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Energy conservation also can help the environment and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.

And so, with the spirit of New Years resolutions still fresh on our minds, we offer the following suggestions for kitchen energy consumption from National Wildlife:

When buying appliances, look for the Energy Star label, a designation of energy efficiency by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The most streamlined refrigerator now uses half the energy of a pre-1993 cooler.

Keep the refrigerators spongy seals, vents and external seals clean. For each household that does this, the energy savings could prevent the need to produce some 450 pounds of greenhouse gases per year.

A gas range uses 60 percent less energy than an electric stovetop. Simply covering a simmering pot with a lid will enable you to cook food at lower heat and use less fuel, whether youre cooking with gas or not.

Dont overfill the refrigerator so that air cant circulate. Also, to save energy, if possible, move the refrigerator away from a stove. Try to limit the times you open the refrigerator during the day so that cold air stays in.

Dont run the dishwasher unless you have a full load, and let the dishes air dry by propping the door ajar after the wash cycle ends.

Trade out traditional bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs, which use less energy.

The whole premise of energy conservation is that even small changes can make a big difference. Isnt this what we all need anyway New Years resolutions that are easy to keep?