Desiging an energy efficient kitchen

When you're designing your new kitchen, it pays to think about how energy efficient your new room will be. Not only will designing an energy-savvy kitchen save you money by reducing things like power bills and operating times, it's also good for the environment because it means less greenhouse gas emissions.

So, where to start? A good place is with your new appliances, and there are a few things to remember.

Energy ratings for fridges

First, when you're buying a new fridge or dishwasher, choose one that has a good energy rating and, for dishwashers, a good water rating. Thanks to the Australian Government's energy and water rating initiatives, this is relatively simple - just look for the relevant label and pick a product that has as many stars as possible.

Generally speaking, the higher the number of stars, the more energy or water efficient the appliance is. For example, an old, inefficient fridge can use up to three times the energy of a new one, while a top-star-rated fridge can save up to 4.5 tonnes of greenhouse gas over its lifetime.

It's also important to choose a fridge that's the right size for your family's needs. Refrigerators operate at their peak efficiency when they're full, so you'll be wasting energy if your fridge is often nearly empty.

Buying a dishwasher

Choose one that comes with small-load, half-load or eco-friendly cycles, so you won't have to put the machine through its full paces every time you decide to turn it on.

Kitchen ovens and stoves

Ovens and cooktops aren't subjected to the energy rating system, but it's more energy efficient to opt for a gas cooktop where possible. These cost about half as much to operate and produce half the amount of greenhouse gases as electric models. Also, choose a fan-forced oven, which speeds up the cooking process and is about 30 per cent more efficient than a standard oven.

Next, think about your layout - especially where you plan to position your fridge. Make sure it's in a relatively cool spot, out of the sun and away from appliances that heat up, such as dishwashers, ovens, cooktops and even microwaves. That way it won't have to use extra energy trying to stay cool.

Also make sure you allow a big enough space to house your fridge. In order to work effectively and efficiently, there should be a gap of at least 80mm at the back to allow for proper ventilation of the coils. And plan for your rangehood to be connected to an unconditioned outside air supply.

That way you'll ensure that the fan doesn't extract expensively cooled air from a nearby airconditioned room.

Contact a kitchen designer to find out more about an energy efficient kitchen: