Thanksgiving is a time to come together with family and friends, but the extra cooking, heating, and holiday travel can quickly increase your energy bill. Whether you are hosting, staying in, or traveling, these energy-saving tips can help you reduce costs and minimize your environmental impact.
Optimize Your Cooking Energy
Plan Oven Use Thoughtfully: Bake multiple dishes together to maximize oven use or cook sides in batches at similar temperatures. Avoid opening the oven door frequently, as each open door lets heat escape and requires more energy to recover.
Use Smaller Appliances: Consider using slow cookers, microwaves, air fryers, or toaster ovens for side dishes. These use less energy than a full-sized oven and can often cook smaller items more efficiently.
Lower Home Heating Costs
Adjust the Thermostat: With the kitchen heating up, try lowering the thermostat a few degrees if you have the heat on. If you are hosting a gathering, body heat from guests will also keep the home warmer.
Use Ceiling Fans: Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise on a low setting, which helps circulate warm air and keeps rooms comfortable without turning up the heat.
Close Doors to Unused Rooms: If you have extra rooms that won’t be used during Thanksgiving, keep them closed off to prevent heating unused spaces. For maximum energy savings, consider closing or adjusting the vents in the unused rooms.
Use Energy-Smart Holiday Lighting
Switch to LED: If you are decorating for the season, choose energy-efficient LED string lights. They use up to 80% less energy and last longer than traditional lights.
Use Timers: Put lights on timers so they automatically turn on in the evening and switch off overnight. This keeps energy use low while adding a festive touch.
Optimize Dishwashing and Cleanup
Maximize Dishwasher Loads: Wait until the dishwasher is full before running. Use the eco or energy-saving setting, if available, which uses less water and heat for cleaning.
Consider Handwashing Efficiently: If you need to handwash, fill the sink with water instead of letting it run continuously.
Traveling Tips for Energy Savings at Home
Unplug Electronics: Even when turned off, many devices still draw power. Unplug items like TVs, chargers, gaming consoles and small appliances before you leave.
Use Light Timers: If you are concerned about security, use timers on a few lights in your home instead of leaving them on continuously. Timers reduce energy use and help make it look like someone’s home.
MEL App: Utilize our MEL app to receive alerts, notifying you if your home is consuming excessive energy when you’re away. It’s a convenient way to stay informed about any unexpected energy usage while you’re not at home.
A little planning can go a long way in saving energy this Thanksgiving. These tips help you stay efficient, whether you are cooking, hosting, or traveling. Saving energy during the holiday season isn’t just good for your wallet—it is a gift to the planet as well. Have a warm and energy-efficient Thanksgiving.