Autumn officially marks the beginning of the holiday season, starting with thanksgiving. This holiday is known for bringing family and friends together with a huge feast, making the kitchen the focal point of the celebration.
According to the u.s. Department of energy, cooking accounts for 4.5 percent of energy used in u.s. Homes, without factoring in refrigeration, hot water heating or dishwashing. On thanksgiving, however, you’re likely to use 15 percent. In honor of this day, we have provided 10 energy saving tips for thanksgiving to keep your electricity bill low while you keep your holiday cheer high!
1. Lower the thermostat
Before your guests arrive, lower your thermostat slightly to cool the room. Once they have arrived, your home will naturally warm from the body heat.
2. Seal your appliances
Make sure your refrigerator and freezer doors are sealed tightly. If cold air is leaking through, your refrigerator will have to work harder to maintain its temperature, increasing the cost of your energy bills.
3. Allow hot food to cool
Allow hot food and liquids to cool completely before placing them in the refrigerator or freezer. Uncovered items will give off vapors that will make your unit work harder, causing inefficiencies and the use of unnecessary energy.
4. Keep the lids on
Cook with the lids on. Using lids to keep the heat in, allows you to lower temperatures and shorten cooking times.
5. Slightly reduce boiling temperatures
If you are boiling liquids, start with the highest temperature setting and reduce it once the liquid has reached its boiling point.
6. Use the microwave
Microwave ovens use half the power of your regular oven and shortens cooking time, so it’s important to use it whenever possible.
7. Preheat carefully
Keep in mind that there is no need to preheat for broiling or roasting, and that you should use your preheat period wisely. We recommend a period of five to eight minutes at most.
8. Cook only one meal at a time
If you are using an electric oven, make sure to cook as much of your meal at one time, even if the instructions call for various temperatures. As long as the temperatures are within 25 degrees fahrenheit, your food should still come out well.
9. Keep leftovers in the house
Many people often store leftovers in a second refrigerator located outside or in the garage. Since the temperature of the outdoors and the garage is not regulated, the refrigerator has to work harder to keep your food cool in warm and cold temperatures.
10. Clean it yourself
Once all your cooking is complete, wipe up minor spills and splatters, but avoid using your self-cleaning cycle unless your oven is in need of some major cleaning. If you choose to use it, turn it on right after cooking or wait until the late evening when electricity use is low.
Wiremasters electric has been providing residential and commercial electrical services in south florida for years. Our goal is to operate above industry standards and provide quality services to meet your needs and surpass your expectations. Contact us today to find out more information and to set up an appointment with one of our miami electricians.