As temperatures cool down, indulging in comforting meals becomes a highlight. However, the frequent use of the oven for dishes like roasts, pies, and crumbles can lead to increased energy expenses. Dilly Carter, a renowned organizer and TV personality, offers innovative tips and tricks to maintain a cozy home during winter without breaking the bank.
In particular, focusing on the kitchen, Dilly proposes practical approaches to save money while cooking. She emphasizes that air fryers and microwaves are generally more energy-efficient than gas hobs or ovens. For those without these appliances, she recommends batch cooking on the hob as an effective energy-saving method. Reheating a single portion of frozen bolognese consumes less energy compared to cooking from scratch each time. Dilly also suggests maximizing oven usage by preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, such as baking muffins alongside a Sunday roast.
For tea enthusiasts, Dilly advises boiling only the necessary amount of water for the desired cups to avoid wastage. Additionally, she highlights the importance of descaling kettles to enhance efficiency and improve the taste of brewed tea. When it comes to larger appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, Dilly recommends waiting until they are fully loaded before running them. Washing clothes at lower temperatures like 30 degrees is not only suitable for most items but also gentler on fabrics.
Dilly underscores the simplicity of keeping homes warmer in winter through cost-effective methods. By identifying areas where cold air enters the house and ensuring efficient radiator operation, homeowners can create an effective plan. She also emphasizes the value of using smart meters to monitor energy consumption patterns and identify areas for potential reduction. Smart meters, provided by energy suppliers at no extra cost, offer insights that can lead to more informed energy usage decisions.
In conclusion, Dilly stresses that energy efficiency does not require significant investments in technology. By focusing on fundamental practices, households can significantly reduce energy costs and contribute to a more sustainable living environment.