As the weather cools down, indulging in comforting food becomes a highlight. However, the frequent use of the oven for dishes like roasts and pies can drive up energy expenses swiftly. Renowned organizer and TV personality, Dilly Carter, offers innovative tactics and strategies to maintain a cozy environment in every room during the winter season without breaking the bank on energy bills.
In particular, focusing on the kitchen, Dilly provides practical tips to economize while cooking. “Air fryers and microwaves are generally more energy-efficient than gas stoves or ovens,” she points out. She suggests that batch cooking on the stovetop is an excellent way to conserve energy for those without these appliances. Dilly recommends reheating a single serving of frozen bolognese as a more energy-efficient option compared to cooking from scratch each time. Additionally, she encourages utilizing the oven efficiently by considering preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, like baking muffins alongside a Sunday roast for the kids’ lunchboxes.
For tea enthusiasts, Dilly offers advice on saving energy. “Only boil the necessary amount of water for the number of cups you intend to make,” she advises. While emphasizing the importance of enjoying a cup of tea, Dilly highlights the benefits of descaling the kettle for improved efficiency and better-tasting tea.
When it comes to larger appliances, Dilly suggests waiting until the washing machine and dishwasher are full before starting a cycle. Washing clothes at 30 degrees Celsius is suitable for most garments and prolongs their lifespan. Dilly underscores the simplicity of enhancing home warmth in the winter through cost-effective measures. She recommends conducting a brief inspection around the house to identify areas where heat escapes and ensuring optimal radiator performance.
Furthermore, Dilly emphasizes the value of smart meters for boosting energy efficiency. “A smart meter is a straightforward starting point to monitor your energy consumption and identify potential areas for reduction,” she explains. Smart meters can be installed by your energy provider at no additional charge. Dilly stresses that adopting energy-efficient practices does not necessarily require significant investments in technology but rather attentiveness to fundamental principles.
It is important to note that eligibility for certain measures may vary, and the display and figures shown on smart meters are for demonstrative purposes only.