Contributed by Lori Dolnick
Here are Seven Tips you can use today to be greener in your kitchen!
1) Stop pre-rinsing before dishwashing!
If you are rinsing your dishes before you load your dishwasher, you can waste up to 20 gallons of water per meal (according to Energy Star®). Energy efficient dishwashers, like Miele's La Perla have additional water savings programs and an internal water heater that does a great job of removing stuck-on food - saving you time, water and energy. Sure, our mother's dishwashers couldn't handle it, but many of today's better dishwasher models can clean off food without the rinse. So break that rinsing habit - scrape, load and test your dishwasher today.
2) Unplug that second refrigerator.
The biggest guzzler of energy is the refrigerator. If you are shopping for a new model, check out Energy Star as not all models are energy efficient to begin with. If you have an older refrigerator, please shut it off when you don't need it for entertaining or simply recycle it. The DOE (Department of Energy) is running a recycling program (www.recyclemyoldfridge.com) to combat this epidemic. It's important to keep in mind that an Energy Star® refrigerator uses at least 20% less energy than one that is not qualified and uses 40% less energy than refrigerators sold in 2001.
3) Compost vs. Disposals
In my dreams, I'm composting and making my garden greener. Someday… sigh. If you want to reduce your waste and use less energy… hopefully you recycle already… check out these great composting products at http://www.composters.com. If you do find time – tell me how you're doing by commenting to this blog.
4) Induction vs. Gas & Electric
Induction uses less energy overall than gas or electric and its cool magnetic functionality won't make you overuse the air conditioning in hot climates. According to inductioncooktop.com, these surfaces are anywhere from 50% to 90% more efficient. Induction heats faster and with more control so you also spend less time cooking. Check out top appliance companies like Miele, Wolf and Thermador for products that have pan sensor and power booster features.
5. Vacuum on less power
Lower the power on your vacuum, especially on carpets and area rugs. High power is meant for smooth surfaces only. Some vacuums have power adjustments that optimize power for the surface you are cleaning. If you have the power on too high, you could even be picking up less dirt and making it harder to move your vacuum. More work, less cleaning performance and way too much energy use.
Check your power setting. This vacuum by Miele will help save energy by using it at the recommended settings for carpets, floors and furniture.
5) Water saving faucets
Converting to a water saving faucet can save you water and energy! Check out the EPA's WaterSense website for calculators and products. According to the EPA, "Switching to WaterSense labeled bathroom sink faucets or faucet accessories could save your family enough water annually to do 14 loads of laundry."
6) Choose quality products from environmentally responsible companies.
BLANCO (sinks and faucets), for example, has high certifications for environmental manufacturing processes. And they make a quality product that will last a long time, so you won't have to replace it. Being green means buying less disposable products.
7) BYOB (Bring your own bag)
Plastic or Paper – How about neither? I own way too many canvas bags. But, sitting in my truck and hanging on hooks near my door, they are a constant reminder that we can reduce our waste. Don't just opt for paper bags. Take the time to bring your own. The canvas holds more (less trips to and from the car), and some stores give you money back for bringing your own.
Contributed by Lori Dolnick.Click here to read all of Lori's posts.
