Kitchens

Do you remember as a child when you came home from school – opened the front door – and the smell of the evening’s meal met you? As you entered the kitchen, mom was busy enjoying the preparation. One glance to the countertop and there was the chocolate pie – there was always an evening dessert. Now look ahead 20, 30, 40, even 50 years ahead and how do we see our kitchens? Well, things have certainly changed. We have become so busy – even those who have retired – that we opt for the quick and easy meals or take-out and eat-out. But that doesn’t mean our kitchens shouldn’t be ready for those days when we do prepare the meals. But, kitchens have changed! Energy efficiency is at the top of the list for consideration. Below are a few things we can do to be energy conscious yet have a pleasant atmosphere in which to work.

Energy efficient appliances – the first place we should start. Check your appliance manuals to make sure you are following guidelines for efficiency. i.e., some dishwashers have internal heating elements that allow you to set the water heater at a lower temp. Secondly, make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Vacuum the condenser coils of the refrigerator once a year (unless you have no-clean condenser coils.)

Gas ovens and ranges with automatic, electric ignition systems save gas because a pilot light is not burning continuously.

Recycle, Recycle, Recycle – Kitchen recycling centers take the mess out of managing your recyclables. Modified kitchen cabinets neatly conceal recycling bins. Check out your local home improvement store for options. Stand alone double and triple bins can be purchased at Target.

Energy efficient task lighting and lighting controls – whole house, programmable controls that allow lighting fixtures to perform as task, safety or mood lighting can often offset the cost by the first year’s energy savings.

Always leave the faucet lever in the cold position when using small amounts of water. Left in the hot position energy is used even though the hot water never reaches the faucet.

All that said – cooking can be fun and energy efficient in a well appointed kitchen. Give cooking a try – I do once in a while!