1. Use space wisely

Ditching the mudroom actually meant less clutter for these homeowners, and it freed up space for a new deck. Installing a couple of inches of highly efficient spray foam insulation on the main floor has helped reduce the owners’ utility bill. Insulation, airKrete Canada.

2. Let in natural light

Choosing the right Energy Star–rated doors for your climate ensures optimal insulation year-round. Generous windowpanes virtually eliminate the need for artificial lighting in the daytime. French doors, Ross Windows & Doors.

3. Go with the low flow

The owners notice no difference in water pressure when using their Blanco low-flow kitchen faucet, especially since their dishwashing is handled by an Energy Star dishwasher. Compared with handwashing, the dishwasher saves almost 19,000 litres (5,000 gallons) of water, uses less than half the energy and spares them 230 hours of scrubbing annually.

4. Create a cross-breeze

An Energy Star–rated window retains heat in winter. Its placement allows the owners to create a cross-breeze instead of turning on the air conditioning. Window, Ross Windows & Doors.
 

5. Work on a green surface

Engineered quartz countertops are fabricated efficiently and highly durable, and reduce the risk of bacterial growth by virtue of being non-porous. Their eco-friendly qualities make them a favourite of architects seeking LEED certification. Countertops, CaesarStone.
 

6. Cool the lights

Warm-toned under-cabinet LED lighting ensures maximum energy efficiency without throwing heat.

7. Go low and light

Low-VOC white paint minimizes indoor air pollution and reflects natural light. Paint, Benjamin Moore Aura.
 

8. Block the elements

An eight-foot overhang, installed during a deck renovation, blocks the sun from overheating the kitchen, thus saving on cooling costs.
 

9. Save on dishwashing

Consumer Reports helped the owners select an energy-efficient dishwasher by Bosch. The designer suggested they go with a white dishwasher and fridge for seamless visual flow. Dishwasher, Sears.

10. Look for good ratings

The owners bought an Energy Star–rated refrigerator by Kenmore that will cut their energy bills by about $110 per year compared with a 1984 model. Fridge, Sears.
 

11. Use a smart dimmer

You don’t need to worry about wasting electricity with this energy-saving dimmer. Its motion sensor automatically turns on the lights when someone enters the room, and turns them off when the kitchen is unoccupied. Lutron dimmer, Rona.
 

12. Shop for a low-flow faucet

Tap this Delta Pilar faucet on the spout or handle to turn off the water without spreading bacteria. This low-flow model consumes water at 6.8 L/min; the industry standard is 8.3 L/min. Faucet, Rona.

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• See our section on eco-friendly kitchens and the high-efficiency kitchen appliances and finished that save you money or lower your footprint.
• Get shopping info for many of the items shown in this kitchen.