The Power of Holiday Hosting: Thanksgiving Energy-Saving Tips
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, family, and, of course, food. Between roasting turkeys, baking pies, and keeping the house cozy for guests, your energy usage can spike fast. With just a little planning, you can enjoy the holiday feast, stay comfortable, and save energy along the way. Now that’s something to be thankful for.
1. Use Your Oven Wisely
Holiday feasts require a lot of cooking, but ovens are one of the biggest energy consumers in the kitchen.
Batch bake: Prepare multiple dishes at once rather than heating the oven several times.
Skip preheating (sometimes): Most casseroles and roasts don’t need a fully preheated oven.
Resist peeking: Every time you open the oven door, the temperature drops, making it work harder.
2. Tap Into Smaller Appliances
Instead of relying only on your oven and stovetop, make friends with:
Slow cookers for dips and soups.
Air fryers or toaster ovens are great options for appetizers.
Microwaves for quick reheats.
These small appliances use significantly less energy than a large oven or burners.
3. Light Up the Party—Efficiently
Holiday sparkle doesn’t have to drain power.
Switch to LEDs: They use up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
Add timers or smart plugs: Set your holiday lights to shut off automatically after bedtime.
Candles & ambiance: A few candles or battery-operated tea lights create a warm ambiance without adding to your electric load.
4. Rethink Heating and Thermostat Settings
More guests = more body heat.
Lower your thermostat by a couple of degrees before your guests arrive—your guests will naturally warm the room.
Keep doors closed to trap warmth where the party is happening.
5. Make Dishwashing Efficient
After a big dinner, the dishwasher is your best friend.
Run full loads only—half loads wastewater and energy.
Skip heated dry: Let dishes air dry by cracking the door open.
6. Share the Energy Savings Spirit
Make energy efficiency part of the fun!
Host a “low-light dinner” with candles and soft lighting.
Encourage guests to bring reusable containers for leftovers to cut down on single-use plastics.
