Fire up the Grill

Fire Up the Grill, Not the Bill

Cooking tips to keep your kitchen cool and your energy bill cooler

Everybody loves the summertime, but nobody loves the utility bill that comes with running the AC constantly. Every time you cook indoors during the summer, your stove or oven adds heat to your home, making your air conditioner work even harder than it already was. During the heart of the summer this only adds to your utility bill, which no one wants.

The fix? Get Grillin’

Here’s how to enjoy delicious meals and save energy:

Go Full Grill Boss

Using a gas or charcoal grill outside keeps the heat where it belongs—in the yard, not your kitchen. Bonus: grilled food just tastes better. So get those burgers, hot dogs and ribs (the best!) cooking and leave the heat outside.

Keep It Simple (and Seasonal)

Take advantage of fresh local veggies—zucchini, corn, and peppers are perfect for skewers. Less time prepping means less time inside with appliances humming.

Batch Grill

Why cook one meal when you can cook two! Grill extras for tomorrow’s lunch or dinner. Reheating in the microwave takes way less energy than cooking twice.

Use Your Slow Cooker or Air Fryer

Too hot to cook outside? We understand. If you must cook indoors, opt for appliances that generate less heat and use less electricity than your oven.

Close the Kitchen Curtain

If you are cooking in the kitchen or even just prepping food, close blinds and curtains to keep sunlight from adding more heat. And run ceiling or floor fans, they will drop the perceived temperature several degrees and are cheaper to run than air conditioners.

So this summer, make it a habit: fire up the grill, not the bill. Your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you.