Tips For An Energy-Efficient Thanksgiving Holiday
Monday, November 24th, 2014 -- 10:19 AM
Alliant Energy has some tips for an energy-efficient Thanksgiving holiday....Let the furnace rest. If your holiday cooking doesn't heat up your house, your guest will. Turn your thermostat down three to five degrees to save energy while staying comfortable.
Skip the preheat. The turkey is traditionally stuffed early in the morning and roasted for hours. When cooking meats or dishes for several hours, there is no need to preheat your oven.
Don't overlook the microwave. Efficient microwaves use about half the energy of conventional ovens.
Use glass or ceramic pans. They heat faster than metal pans, and you can lower the temperature by 25 degrees, reducing energy use.
Cooking together saves energy. Cook as much of your meal at one time as possible. Foods with different cooking temps can be cooked together, if the temperature difference is less than 25 degrees.
Shut the door. This Thanksgiving, resist the urge to open the oven door and check the meal. One open of the door will decrease the temperature inside by 25 degrees.
Coast to the finish. Food keeps cooking even after you turn off the burner. When food is almost ready, turn off the oven or burners and let existing heat finish the cooking for you.
Run a full load. Fill your dishwasher and you will use less hot water than doing them by hand.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.