The energy efficient kitchen

AK Fitted Interiors have compiled their top 10 cost saving tips on saving energy in the busiest room in the house.

1. When purchasing white goods, look for appliances with high energy ratings (a new grading system has recently been introduced with a simpler scale from A to G).

2. While fridges and freezers need to be kept on for obvious reasons, you can save energy by turning other appliances off at the plug. Dishwashers, microwaves, washing machines, tumble dryers and electric ovens will all eat up electricity when left on standby.

3. Only use what you need. Induction cooking uses energy more efficiently than a gas hob or electric ceramic hob. This is because no energy is wasted heating the space around the pan (and they are so much easier to clean!).

4. Switch to a dishwasher.According to the Energy Saving Trust, hand washing dishes makes up 4% of the average household’s water use – whereas using a dishwasher accounts for just 1% of our water bills. Maximise the benefits by using the eco setting wherever possible, only running when fully loaded and turning off at the plug when not in use.

5. Put a lid on it! Always cover your pots and pans –the water will boil faster and use less energy to heat your food. Away from the hob, avoid the temptation to open the oven door repeatedly – you’ll let out hot air and waste energy.

6. Batch cooking. Ovens use significantly more energy than microwaves but are a necessity for many of our favourite dishes. Try cooking several dishes simultaneously, saving time as well as energy and money.

7. Bright ideas. Lighting typically accounts for a further 15% of electrical demand throughout the home. It’s worth changing to LED light bulbs and keeping lights off when not in use.

8. Only fill and boil the kettle with as much water as you need and descale regularly. If it’s full of limescale, you use more energy to boil the same amount of water. Alternatively, consider investing in a boiling water tap, which involves a substantial initial cost but has been proven to be more energy efficient if your household boils the kettle several times a day or more.

9. Keep your fridge at five degrees Celsius or less. On average, we keep our fridges at seven degrees Celsius, which may save a small amount on energy bills but also means our food goes off sooner.

10. Modern washing machines can clean clothes effectively at lower temperatures. Changing from 40°C to 30°C means you could get three cycles instead of two using the same amount of energy, depending on your washing machine.

Thinking of updating your kitchen? AK Fitted Interiors’ experienced design team can advise further on creating a more energy efficient space tailored to your specific needs.

Visit the showroom at Saxon Park, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove,B60 4AD or visit www.akfittedinteriors.co.uk