Thanksgiving Energy Savings Ideas
The holiday season accounts for much activity in minimal time, and that electric bill can rack up in no time at all. As the temperatures decrease and the guest-count increases, you realize you’re most thankful for the copious leftovers you’ll have when food and funds are scarce next month. It’s the lavish price to pay when you’re hosting, warming and feeding more than just you and your cat, right? Wrong. Or, it doesn’t have to be. It is possible to prepare a joyous, holiday dinner without also preparing for bankruptcy. Consider these tips to conquer your Thanksgiving energy savings this year.
It’s gettin’ hot in here…
…so turn off all your heaters. Corny delivery, legitimate statement. In many situations, a lower temperature than required accomplishes the same result, whether it be the thermostat or kitchen appliance. Lower temp = lower cost. Ka-ching.
People generate heat. If you’re expecting guests, lower the thermostat a couple of degrees. Natural body heat will compensate, and if you’re cooking, warmth from the oven will help, too.
If you’re cooking something that takes longer than an hour, like a turkey, there is no need to preheat the oven. It won’t make a difference in the long run for a slow-cooking dish.
Feel the burn
In other words, don’t waste heat. There are many ways to resource and avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
Prepare dishes that can cook simultaneously. Any meals that require temperatures with 25 degrees of each other can typically share the oven.
Although it’s tempting, avoid opening the door, lid or top to any oven, crockpot or bowl while food is cooking inside it. The hot air inside is important for the cooking process and each peek sets the temperature back about 25 degrees. Focus on energy savings and use the oven window for your visual check-in.
Small but mighty
When possible, swap a smaller appliance for the oven or stove.
A microwave does the same job an oven does with much less time and way less energy.
A slow cooker, such as a crockpot, is equally efficient in energy savings. It might take a little longer than an oven or stove, but you’ll use far less energy and the food will turn out just as delicious.
Thanksgiving is a grand time of year, full of good food and better company. Adjust your approach to the holiday, so this year you can break the wishbone without breaking the bank.
