Sustaining our environment

Kitchen

When buying a refrigerator, freezer or dishwasher, choose one with a high star energy rating. The more stars on the label, the more efficient the appliance and less energy it uses.
Freezers should operate at -15ºC to -18ºC while fresh food compartments should operate at around 3ºC to 4ºC. Don't set the temperature too low - a change of one degree can affect energy consumption by up to 5%. Check refrigerator and freezer temperatures with an appliance thermometer.
Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Test them by closing the door over a piece of paper so it is half in and half out of the refrigerator. If you can pull the paper out easily, the hinge may need adjustment or the seal may need replacing.
Be sure to choose a refrigerator or freezer that's right for your needs - they operate at peak efficiency when filled to the correct capacity.
Place your fridge in a cool spot, and make sure the coils get plenty of air circulation.
If you have a second fridge or bar fridge, turn it off when not in use to save $60 or more a year off your energy bill.
Get rid of the second fridge as older fridges can use up to 3 x more energy than new models. A rebate of $35 is offered to Sydney householders under Fridge Buyback supported by the NSW Climate Change Fund.

Do only full loads when using your dishwasher, and use the most economical program that gives you a satisfactory wash result (lowest temperature or shortest running time).

Microwaves, electric frypans or pressure cookers are much more energy efficient than using the oven.
Keep the oven door completely closed until the food is cooked. Every time the door is opened, the oven temperature drops by 14-20ºC.
Keep lids on pots and simmer gently, rather than boiling rapidly, for more efficient cooking.
Clean rangehood filters regularly and vent the exhaust to outside your home
Fix dripping taps, and install water saving devices like water saving aerators and tap flow regulators

Page last updated: 27 February 2011