Kitchens are the heart of our homes, but they can also be responsible for big increases in our energy bills. Whether you’re washing the dishes, doing the laundry or making a meal, there are ways that you can save energy and reduce your bills – whether it’s through smarter ways to wash or more energy-efficient ways to cook.
Maximise your dishwasher
While washing dishes by hand may sound like a more sustainable option, you’re actually likely to use around three times more water than if you use a dishwasher. It’s also important to only pop the dishwasher on once it’s full, as a half-load uses the same amount of energy as a full load. Also, remember that economy settings can maximise energy efficiency.
Get logical with your laundry
As with the dishwasher, washing machines use the same amount of energy whether they’re full or only have one item in, so whenever possible, save your laundry up until you have a full load. Modern detergents are also more effective at killing bacteria, which means that in most cases, washing at 30 degrees is enough to get things clean – and can reduce your energy usage and bills.
Trust in technology
If you’re replacing or upgrading your white goods, do some research on the technology available to make your kitchen or utility room more energy efficient. Modern developments cover everything from fridges with special humidity zones for fresher fruit and veg, to smart washing machines that use sensors to automatically measure the right amount of detergent and water needed for each load.
Re-use the heat you produce
Turn down the heating thermostat while you’re cooking, and once you’ve finished using the oven, open the door to let the residual heat into the room to warm it through.
Be energy efficient
While replacing white goods is undeniably an expense, replacing those with a low energy efficiency rating with models rated at the top of the scale can mean significant reductions in running costs over time – and they could even end up paying for themselves in the long run.
Switch to LED bulbs
It’s not just your large appliances that can impact energy usage – energy-saving lighting options such as LED bulbs can be cheaper to use and have a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Installing dimmer switches can reduce energy consumption even further.
Get smart with energy consumption
Having a smart meter installed can change how you understand your energy usage and help you to identify the changes that have the biggest impact, which is especially important in rooms used the most, like the kitchen.
Don’t rely on standby
Remembering to switch devices off at the plug could save you up to £45 a year, so don’t be tempted to leave things on standby.
Stay cool with the right positioning
Maintaining your fridge and freezer is the most effective way to keep them running at their most efficient. If your model isn’t frost-free, you should defrost chest freezers at least once or twice a year and upright models two or three times a year. Clean the cooling coils behind your fridge every 12 months while also ensuring all door seals are airtight.
Try better ways to dry
Drying clothes outside is the cheapest and most energy-efficient option, but it’s not always possible. Heat pump tumble dryers are by far the most efficient choice. Other options such as heated airers and dehumidifiers are all worth looking at too.
Plan your kitchen layout
Where you put other appliances in relation to your fridge may have more effect on your energy consumption than you realise. Appliances such as dishwashers and ovens expel heat when in use, meaning a neighbouring fridge needs to work harder to keep itself cool. Plus, if fridge and oven doors are opened at the same time, fridge temperature will increase.
Find more bill-busting tech available in store or online at currys.co.uk
