Save energy and keep Thanksgiving cooking on track.
When you’re busy preparing holiday meals, it’s tempting to crack open the oven door to check your dish — but resist the urge! Every peek can drop the internal temperature by up to 25°F, forcing your oven to work harder to re-heat and using more energy in the process.
At EDGE Energy, we love simple, effective ways to help DMV homeowners save energy — even in the kitchen.
Why It Matters
Opening the oven door =
❄️ Heat lost
⚡ More energy used
⏳ Longer cook time
Instead, rely on the oven light and window so your oven keeps steady heat.
Cook Multiple Dishes at Once
Maximize heat by cooking more than one dish at a time. Many sides — casseroles, baked veggies, stuffing, pies — can share space without compromising flavor or texture.
The result?
More food, less energy spent.
Turn the Oven Off Early
Your oven stays hot after you switch it off.
Turn the oven off a few minutes before food is done — the residual heat finishes the job, saving energy and protecting your dish from overcooking.
Bonus: Skip Preheating When You Can
Some dishes don’t need a perfect preheat:
- Casseroles
- Roasted vegetables
- Pies
- Stuffing and baked sides
They’ll warm up with the oven — and so will your energy savings.
Note: Breads and pastries still need full preheat for proper rise and texture.
Every Bit of Efficiency Counts
Holiday energy use rises — but small habits stack up. Smarter cooking practices help reduce energy waste and keep holiday hosting comfortable and efficient.
