Heat Food without Heating the Kitchen

 With summer heat setting in and air conditioning costs already a worry; don’t make it harder for your air conditioning system by heating up your kitchen with a conventional oven.

 Microwave ovens use about half as much energy as your oven and stovetop, and they reduce cooking time to minutes.

 If you ‘re still using the microwave you got as a wedding gift, throw it out and opt for a newer microwave that gives more control over your food and the appliance’s efficiency.

 As you shop for a new microwave, look for the Energy Star label, given to appliances that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines by the U.S. Department of Energy.

 Next, don’t buy a microwave larger than your family’s needs. Choose one with features that let you control the power or temperature for certain foods. Some microwaves will turn off when the food is don. Concentrate on features that will reduce cooking time.

 Keep these tips in mind when using your new appliance:

• Never turn an empty microwave on. That could damage it.
• Place food on the outer edge of the rotating tray, as this allows it to heat faster.
• Try using microwave instructions on your favorite boxed meals instead of warming the food in your conventional oven.
• Save very large meals, such as those for guests, for the conventional oven. The more food per meal you cook in the microwave, the less efficient using it becomes.
• For a tasty meal that can’t be microwaved, try using a crock pot or slow cooker.

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