It’s that time of year again where family and friends gather together to celebrate the season — and eat. The winter holidays usually mean lots of home cooking for larger crowds. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to keep holiday energy costs to a minimum. Here are some no-cost ways to save money and energy in the kitchen.

Cooking

·   Oven preheating is usually not required and wastes energy. When preheating is required, avoid preheating longer than necessary. Preheating takes about eight minutes.

·   Turn off the oven a few minutes before cooking is finished. Retained heat will complete the job.

·   Use the microwave whenever possible, it’s the most efficient way to cook or reheat food.

·   Don’t use your range or oven to heat the kitchen. It’s inefficient and can be a safety hazard.

·   Choose pots and pans that have wide flat bottoms that just cover the burner. They will absorb all the heat and cook food more evenly. Aluminum pans with flat bottoms, straight sides, and tight fitting lids are best for energy savings.

 

Dishwasher

·      Proper loading is important. Operate only when it is filled to capacity.

·      If manufacturer’s instructions permit, open the door of your dishwasher after the last rinse cycle to allow moisture to escape and the dishes to dry as they cool. Some units have a “power-saver switch” that automatically eliminates the drying cycle.

 

Refrigerator

·      Keep the refrigerator between 37º and 40º and the freezer setting at 0º.

·      Keep condenser coils clean. Vacuum the coils at least twice a year.

·      Make sure the door gasket seals tightly.

·      Let hot foods cool before placing them in the refrigerator.

·      Position the refrigerator away from heat sources. If the unit has back coils, position it at least 4" from the wall.

·      Avoid keeping the refrigerator door open.

·      Think about getting rid of your extra refrigerator or freezer as they generally are inefficient and can cost two to three times more to operate per month. Gulf Power will pick up and recycle your working refrigerator or freezer for free and will give you $35. Make your appointment online or call 1-877-655-4001.

 

If you’re shopping for new appliances to help you get through the holiday season this year look for the blue ENERGY STAR® label when you shop. Today's energy-efficient home appliances help you use less energy, save water and save money. Gulf Power EarthCents incentives are available for these qualifying appliances: Clothes Washer - $75, Refrigerator - $50, Freezer - $25.

 

To learn about more ways to save money and energy throughout the year, you can call us at 1-877-655-4001 or visit us online at www.gulfpower.com.

 

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company. Gulf Power serves more than 430,000 customers in eight counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely deliver affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible electric service to our customers while working to improve the communities we serve. Visit online at GulfPower.com or on the company’s Facebook page, “Gulf Power Company.”