With always-on refrigerators, high-power ranges and leaky faucets, kitchens are typically the most energy-consuming rooms in any household. There is a popular, preconceived notion that crafting an energy efficient kitchen is a costly ordeal, but this is entirely untrue. Here are a few ways to make your kitchen more energy efficient.

Don’t hand wash dishes. This may be hard to believe, but washing dishes by hand actually wastes more energy than using a dishwasher . People tend to keep the faucet running when washing and rinsing dishes, a habit that wastes thousands of gallons of water a year, but using a dishwasher cuts down on water consumption drastically. For even more serious energy savings, try getting an Energy Star compliant dishwasher like those available at our appliance showroom.

Stock that fridge! As if there aren’t enough great reasons to keep your refrigerator full of good eats, here’s another: Your refrigerator wastes more energy when empty than it does when full. Conquer this conundrum by filling that empty space with groceries or containers full of water.

Look for the “Energy Star” logo. This is a must. Nowadays most appliances are given the Energy Star seal of approval, but there are still many that do not share this privilege and are therefore not energy efficient. The Energy Star symbol is more than just a logo; it lets you know that the product you are using has been crafted and tested to perform its duties while saving on consumption. Be sure to keep an eye out for the symbol on your next kitchen appliance purchase.