Stoves are great appliances because they let you make so many different dishes. You can use one burner at a time or all the burners to whip up meals for your family and guests. The downside is that using the stove causes your energy bills to rise. You don’t need to settle for high bills, though, because we found tips that help you save money and use your stove more economically.
1. Consider a Gas Stove
While gas and electric stoves usually cost around the same, gas stoves can save you money in the long run. Of course, this only applies if you already have a gas hookup. If your home lacks the right connection, you’ll need a pro to install one before you invest in the stove. You may even notice a change in your bills the first month you start using the new stove.
2. Add an Induction Cooktop
A good alternative to a traditional stove is an induction cooktop. Induction cooktops only work with specific pots and pans. They have an electromagnetic field that sits below a glass surface. When you place a pot on the glass, the field transfers heat to the bottom of the pot. It saves you money because you only use power when you have a pot or pan on the surface. As soon as you move the pot to the counter or table, the heat shuts off.
3. Use Multiple Burners
Your stove uses the same amount of power to heat up whether you cook one dish or multiple dishes. To save on energy, try using multiple burners at the same time. It’s smart to cook a main dish in the oven below while you make side dishes on the burners. Always turn the oven on first to pre-heat it. Some of that heat transfers to the cooktop, helping you make dishes faster and without wasting energy.
4. Know the Repair Signs
Knowing the repair signs is a good way to ensure that you don’t face expensive stove fixes. The stove may have burner problems, like one burner not working or one that gets hotter than the others. Check the oven door to make sure it seals tightly and that you can’t feel the heat coming out of it. It’s also helpful to look for signs that the electrical parts have issues. Also, use your nose to detect any odd odors that might come from the stove.
Many people use their stoves often and don’t think about repairs until they discover a big problem. Looking for signs your stove needs help is just one way to use it more economically and cut down on costs. When you uncover a faulty door or any other problem, let Hotshot Appliance in Olathe, KS know that you need stove or oven repairs.
