As the weather cools down, indulging in comforting meals becomes a highlight. However, frequent use of the oven for dishes like roasts and pies can lead to increased energy bills. Dilly Carter, a well-known professional organizer and TV personality, shares practical tips and tricks to help you maintain a cozy home during winter without breaking the bank on energy costs.
Focusing on the kitchen, Dilly recommends cost-effective ways to save money while cooking. She suggests that air fryers and microwaves are more energy-efficient than using a gas hob or oven. For those without these appliances, batch cooking on the hob is a great alternative to conserve energy. Reheating a single portion of frozen bolognese consumes less energy compared to cooking from scratch each time. Dilly also advises utilizing the oven efficiently by cooking multiple items simultaneously, such as baking muffins alongside a Sunday roast.
When it comes to making hot beverages, Dilly advises only boiling the necessary amount of water for the number of cups being made to avoid wastage. Regularly descaling the kettle not only improves its efficiency but also enhances the taste of brewed tea.
Dilly emphasizes the importance of maximizing the efficiency of larger appliances like washing machines and dishwashers by running them only when fully loaded. Washing clothes at 30 degrees is usually sufficient and gentler on fabrics. By taking simple steps to identify and seal areas where cold air enters the house and ensuring radiators function optimally, homeowners can effectively keep their homes warmer during winter.
For enhanced energy efficiency, Dilly recommends starting with a smart meter as a practical solution to monitor energy consumption patterns and identify areas where usage can be reduced. Smart meters are typically provided by energy suppliers at no additional cost. Dilly emphasizes that focusing on basic energy-saving practices can significantly contribute to reducing energy expenses without requiring significant investments in high-tech solutions.