Cut Energy Costs with a Summer Cookout
Even if you have the best energy supplier, the last thing on your mind when you cookout is probably electricity. But grilling is also great way to save on your energy costs. Plus, you get to do it while enjoying delicious food with friends and family. Here’s a few ways you can save more by grilling, plus how you can find a lower electricity rate.
Tip #1: Host a Cookout When it’s Cooler
Now, we know cookouts are usually reserved for the daytime. But it can get brutally hot in the middle of the day! Not only can this make cooking outside uncomfortable, the heat can drive your guests inside. And all that body heat will make your AC run longer, costing you more. So, consider hosting in the evening, when the heat of the day is over and the temperature is lower.
Tip #2: Keep Your Cookout Guests Outside
The biggest summer electricity costs is running your AC system. And piling people into your home can raise the ambient temperature, making your AC run longer. Consider keeping your guests outside. Provide adequate seating and lots of activities. You can also store cold drinks outside in a cooler with ice to avoid people repeatedly going in and out.
Tip #3: Grill Everything You Can
Whether charcoal or gas, using your smoker or grill is completely electricity free. So why not take advantage of it? Don’t just grill and smoke your meats. Cook your sides this way too! Corn, potatoes, and even watermelon are great candidates for the grill. You can even make a great smoked queso dip for an appetizer.
Tip #4: Reduce Appliance Use
Using appliances heats up your home and uses power, so cut where you can. If you’re using your oven, do it the night before. Also, try and bake or roast as many dishes as possible so you can batch cook them. To really save energy and avoid the oven altogether, use a toaster oven or air fryer. Crockpots are a great way to cook and serve food while keeping it warm.
Tip #5: Consider a Potluck
Hosting a cookout can be a big burden, especially if you’re providing all the food. If you want to save money, both on electricity costs and food, consider a potluck! You can focus your attention on grilling or smoking dishes outside and avoid cooking inside altogether.
Tip #6: Try a No Bake Dessert
Having a good dessert is important for your cookout! So why not save yourself some time and energy, and avoid the baking? Try something like these no-bake peanut butter bars. Or, for maximum time saving, pick up some ice cream and toppings for dessert!
Tip #7: Save Electricity on Dishes
Not only does using the dishwasher costs on electricity, but it can heat up the house! Consider using disposable utensils and plates where applicable. As for your dishes, only run your dishwasher later in the evening and only when it’s full. And instead of using the heated-dry setting, let your dishes air dry.
Tip #8: Consider Mood Lighting
Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, you can reduce some of your electricity costs by changing up your lighting! Stick with low lighting indoors, to keep the mood casual. Outdoors, invest in solar garden lights or tiki torches to avoid using more electricity.
Tip #9: Save with a Low Electricity Rate
If you want to save money for your next big party, now’s the time to shop for an electricity plan. Getting a low electricity rate is the best way to save on your power bill, and without too much work involved! Read reviews, compare plans, and find the best electricity rate for you. Visit https://www.paenergyratings.com