MAKE YOUR GATHERINGS COZY & ENERGY EFFICIENT
The fall and winter seasons are when hosting friends and family kicks into high gear — but big gatherings don’t need to result in big energy bills. Whether you’re planning an elaborate dinner or a casual potluck, it’s a good idea to keep your energy use in mind.
Make your gatherings cozy and memorable while being energy efficient and sustainable with these simple tips.
CREATE A COZY AMBIENCE
Nothing says “cozy” quite like ambient lighting! Dim the lights and set the mood with energy-efficient LEDs, or use string lights instead of overhead lighting. You can also use candles for a low-light, no-energy option; just be careful and keep an eye on them while they’re burning.
TURN DOWN THE HEAT
With extra guests inside and the oven turned on, your home is bound to heat up. Instead of cracking a window, turn down your thermostat by a few degrees — it’ll give your heating system a break and keep your home and guests from getting too warm.
USE SMALL APPLIANCES
If possible, make your meal using small appliances like an air fryer or slow cooker, both of which use less energy than an oven.
UNPLUG & ENJOY YOUR COMPANY
When you have a house full of guests, the last thing on your mind should be checking your devices. Unplug devices like your phone, laptop, or gaming consoles, and fully enjoy your company.
OPT FOR NATURAL DECOR
Go for a walk around your neighbourhood and find natural elements that you can use for your décor, such as pinecones and greenery. Your wallet and the landfill will thank you!
LET IT COOL
When packing up leftovers, let the food cool slightly before putting it in your fridge. If hot food goes directly in the fridge, the appliance has to work harder to bring the overall temperature back down. Stay safe though — don’t let food sit out for too long!