Tips for a Green Kitchen

There are ways to achieve a greener kitchen without spending a dime. Learn how to pamper your appliances and save some energy.

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Stovetop
To save heat, match pots and pans with the right burner size. Using the right size pot can save you up to $30 a year.

Microwave vs. Oven
When compared to a conventional oven, microwaves can reduce energy use by 75 percent. If you are comfortable using a microwave, use it in place of the oven to reheat food.

Toaster vs. Toaster Oven
Which is more energy efficient? It all depends on how it's used. If you only use it to toast bread, a traditional toaster is the better option. If you also use it to bake and warm up small meals, a toaster oven might be the better choice. Toaster ovens are more efficient than traditional ovens.

Garbage Disposal
When given the choice, it's better to send food down the garbage disposal than to toss it in a trash bag. Food from the disposal usually makes it to the sewer line, is treated by the sanitary department, and turned into fertilizer.

Refrigerator
A well stocked refrigerator runs more efficiently than an empty one. Be sure not to over-stock. An overcrowded fridge has to work overtime to keep the excess food cool. Refrigerators shouldn't be next to heat producing appliances, which is practically every other gadget in the modern kitchen. For more tips, see our full list.

Dishwasher
To save money, water and energy, wait until the dishwasher is full before running the machine. Skip the rinse cycle and turn off the automatic dryer to save additional resources. To remove soap residue and hard water build up, see energy efficient dishwashers.

Unplug
Unplug coffee pots, blenders, toasters and other small kitchen appliances when not in use.