Are you looking to buy a new stove? Energy efficiency is one of the top priorities among consumer and government officials worldwide, and you can do your part to conserve as much natural gas and electricity as possible by understanding different types of stoves and the energy resources they consume. Here are some great tips to help you find the best stove for you and your family while cutting down on your long term energy costs.
Consider a Solar Oven
Are you interested in cutting huge chunks out of your energy bill one major appliance at a time? Do your kitchen windows allow plenty of sunlight in or do you have a convenient spot outside that gets plenty of sunlight? If you answered yes to these questions, you may be the perfect candidate for a newer solar oven. Solar ovens harness the power of the sun for operation, so they dont require the use of electricity or gas. Furthermore, while prices for solar ovens may exceed $300-$400, many models are available for less than $100 and quite portable; so even if you got a small solar oven in addition to your main oven in the kitchen, you would still be able to save money by cooking outside when there was enough sunlight to provide power.
Compare Energy Consumption of Gas and Electric Stoves
If a solar oven isnt for you or if you want a solar oven just as an alternative cooking method, you still have to make the decision between a gas or stove oven.
Traditionally speaking, gas ovens use about 10% less electricity than electric ovens do. With a traditional gas stove, though, this isnt generally worth the savings, as its compensated through the use of natural gas. However, if you choose a Piezo-Ignited Stove (electronic ignition) you will be able to cut down your natural gas consumption by at least 30-40% and consume a bit less electricity than with a standard electric stove.
If youre going to choose a completely electric stove, it is recommended that you invest in a self cleaning oven. The reason for this is that they are generally much better insulated and the self cleaning feature helps to prevent compromising buildup. Stoves that are better insulated tend to use less energy, as they maintain heat better and cook food more efficiently. Stoves that are cleaned regularly maintain optimal performance; and a stove performing at optimum levels uses the least amount of electricity.
Remember that induction cook top stoves (ovens with a flat range) typically consume nearly double the amount of electricity of both traditional electric stoves and gas stoves. No matter which stove you choose, try to make sure that its designed with energy efficiency in mind by looking for the Energy Star logo.
Look for Additional Discounts
The fact is that there are hundreds of suppliers competing for your business both online and in local department stores. Many of these places offer rebates, coupons, free shipping or installation, and other services that can help lower the price you pay now for your new stove. These types of available discounts increase your odds of being able to afford a higher quality energy efficient stove that will save you money in the future by lowering your electric and/or natural gas bill.
Sam Jones the author of this article watches the energy market closely. For up to date pricing information from the energy suppliers he recommends the uSwitch price comparison website.
This article is copyright free.