Small Appliances
There are a variety of small appliances available today. In almost every case, if a small appliance can do the job then it will save energy compared to a large appliance. Some of the more common small appliances that can save energy used in place of a major appliance are:- microwave ovens
- toaster ovens
- electric fry pans
- electric kettles
Microwave Ovens
The most common small appliance and the one that gets used most frequently is the microwave oven. However, it is often only used to thaw or reheat foods, and not for actual cooking.
A little planning can go a long way to saving energy. For example, thaw food, especially meat products, in the refrigerator and items like baked goods on the counter top. Microwave ovens are your best energy saving option when it comes to reheating food or cooking small portions; saving up-to-50 per cent compared to conventional ovens or cook tops. The ovens range from 800 watts to 1500 watts input power. The microwave energy goes directly into heating the food, as opposed to heating the space or cookware. The oven door can be opened, and the appliance can be turned on and off with no increase in energy use. With a bit of creativity many meals can be prepared in the microwave oven. For example, eggs cooked in the microwave oven take as little as 35 seconds, saving energy and water, and producing an excellent product.
Toaster Ovens
A toaster oven consumes much less energy than a conventional oven. A more appropriate name might be “small oven” because it is a much more efficient oven than it is a toaster. It is faster and ideal for cooking small quantities of food. An average toaster oven is 1250 watts.
Electric fry pans
The electric fry pan requires less electricity than the stovetop to cook a similar quantity of food. Many foods do not require a pre-heated pan. The average standard electric fry pan is 1150 watts.
Electric kettles
When boiling water, use an ordinary small electric kettle and only fill up to the quantity needed. Kettles heat water more efficiently than a range top or a microwave oven. Look for a kettle with an automatic shut-off and a heat-resistant handle. Electric kettles should be cleaned inside periodically with boiling water and vinegar to remove mineral deposits. Water takes longer to boil and wastes energy when hard water mineral deposits coat the element. On average, a standard electric kettle is 1500 watts.
Energy Savings Tips
- Always consider a small appliance instead of the large oven or stove top when preparing or reheating food.
- Food should be arranged evenly in the microwave oven to allow microwaves to interact with the food and cook it more evenly.
- To operate a toaster oven efficiently, ensure there is sufficient room for air to circulate around the oven.
- With electric fry pans, avoid prolonged warming.
- Use cold water when filling your electric kettle, it avoids wasting the energy needed to replenish your hot water system, and the amount of energy required is about the same as boiling hot water.
