How to save energy in the kitchen

With these clever tips you can save energy in your kitchen.

Cooking tips

• Microwaves, electric frypans and pressure cookers are much more energy efficient than using the oven
• Keep the oven door completely closed until the food is cooked
• A fan forced oven uses less energy than a conventional oven and cooking time is substantially reduced
• Check the oven seals are secure
• Match the size of the pot to what you are cooking
• New technology electric induction cooktops can provide better heat control, reducing your cooking time

Compare cooktops with our cost calculator

Refrigeration tips

• Defrost chest type freezers at least once or twice a year and upright models twice or three times a year
• Clean the cooling coils behind the fridge once a year
• Ensure your fridge door seals are airtight
• Leave space around the fridge to allow the heat generated to escape
• Turn off extra fridges when not in use
• Avoid opening the fridge door unnecessarily
• Put your fridge in a cool spot – out of the sun and away from ovens
• Get rid of the old second fridge. Newer fridges use up to 40% less energy

Dishwasher tips

• Run the dishwasher only when fully loaded. A half-filled dishwasher uses the same amount of energy as one with a full load
• Where they are available, use economy or energy-saving settings on your dishwasher for maximum energy efficiency
• Let the contents dry naturally

Check the stars before you buy a new appliance

Energy Rating Labels indicate how efficient appliances are by the number of stars they have. The more stars the better. Find out more at the government energy rating website: www.energyrating.gov.au