Purchasing a refrigerator with an Energy Star label is a great start. However, there are more things to consider when it comes to reducing consumption. Considering the space you need is an important step. Buying a refrigerator that’s too small for your needs and filling it to the brim will use more energy. On the flip side, having too big of a machine that remains mostly empty is wasteful as well. Choosing a model without an ice-maker and water dispenser can save 10-15% more energy. Placing the refrigerator away from heat creating appliances like an oven can also help reduce consumption.
Tiles
Tile tends to be more hygienic than carpet and lacks the toxic chemicals which can be found in linoleum products. It can also be used for countertops and wall decorations- not just flooring. Using tile made of recycled materials helps reduce landfill waste and at the same time takes less energy to produce than tile from raw materials.
Dishwashers
It’s important to pick models that have energy saving and no heat drying cycle options. Energy Star appliances are also a good 10% more efficient than other kinds of dishwashers. The majority of a dishwasher’s energy consumption comes from the water heater. Models with booster heaters can help with this. Always running a full load and utilizing a no heat drying cycle can also help with efficiency.
Ovens
Smaller ovens are more efficient. The smaller the better. It’s better energy-wise to install two small ovens if possible rather than one bigger one. Convection ovens with continuous fans can help reduce energy by 20%. Ovens that feature self-cleaning options are built with better insulation which also helps reduce consumption. A small trick is to also always use the oven light when checking on food, never open the door which allows heat to rapidly escape.
Cook Tops
Magnetic induction cook tops are one of the newer ways to save energy. The way other cook tops work is by heating up the air around the cooking pan. This is a little different because it heats the pan directly, reducing wasted energy. It’s quick and adjustable but requires proper cookware. Conduction requires a metallic surface to work, which means that the cook top will be cool to touch and safer from kitchen accidents.
Microwaves
Microwaves with glass windows have greater emissions, looking for microwaves without glass windows can help reduce consumption. Microwaves typically save more energy than stove tops, so using the microwave more often when possible is a good idea. The most efficient way to use a microwave is to heat food is smaller portions and to play it on the outer edge of the rotating plate inside.
Exhaust Hoods
Energy Star models use 65% less energy and tend to be quieter as well. Avoid fans that merely re-circulate air or downdraft hoods. Hoods which are mounted overhead work the best at reducing moisture and harmful cooking by-products.
