Choosing a slow cooker that’s also energy efficient can make a big difference in your kitchen. These appliances are known for their ability to cook food low and slow, transforming tougher cuts of meat into tender delights and making weeknight dinners a breeze. But did you know that many modern slow cookers are designed with energy savings in mind? We’ve rounded up some of the best models that not only perform brilliantly but also help keep your electricity bills in check. Let’s dive into our top picks for slow cooker energy saver models.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Slow Cooker Energy Saver Model Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Instant Pot Pro 8 Quart 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Pro 8 Quart 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker is a fantastic all-rounder, not just for its speed and versatility but also for its thoughtful energy-saving design. It cooks food efficiently, reducing cooking times and thus energy consumption compared to traditional methods. This model simplifies meal prep for busy households.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 10-in-1 functionality: pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté, sterilize, yogurt, rice, bake, steam, and keep warm.
- ✓ Customizable smart programs with 28 one-touch options.
- ✓ Up to 70% faster cooking times than traditional methods.
- ✓ Durable stainless steel construction for longevity.
Why We Recommend It
This Instant Pot Pro is a top-tier choice for anyone looking to save time and energy in the kitchen. Its ability to perform multiple cooking functions means fewer appliances needed, and its faster cooking reduces overall energy use, making it a smart investment for an energy-conscious home.
Best For
Families and individuals who want a versatile appliance that can handle a wide range of cooking tasks efficiently, saving both time and energy.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly versatile with 10 cooking functions.
- Significantly reduces cooking time, saving energy.
- Durable and built to last, ensuring long-term value.
- Smart programs simplify cooking complex meals.
Cons:
- Can be a larger investment upfront.
- Learning curve for some of the advanced features.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘I’ve owned a few multi-cookers over the years, but this Instant Pot Pro is the one that finally made me ditch my original. The sous vide function alone is worth it — it holds temperature beautifully, and my steaks and salmon come out perfect every single time. No extra gadgets cluttering up the kitchen!’
Customer Review: ‘I have been thinking about getting one of these for a couple of years now, being that I am in my 60s. I am like most people my age who are trying to size down and get rid of the excess, not wanting to add yet another appliance that sits in a cupboard and you have to read the directions again by the time you use it. But this is really easy to use and I love the recipes that came with it. I made a pork roast on Sunday and it was tender and moist. Made pulled pork on Monday and it was a hit. I do recommend this.’
2. Instant Pot Pro 6 Quart 10-in-1 Multi-Cooker
The Instant Pot Pro 6 Quart 10-in-1 Multi-Cooker offers a slightly smaller capacity but packs the same energy-efficient punch as its larger sibling. It’s designed to cook meals faster, which directly translates to lower energy consumption. This is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a high-performance appliance that is mindful of your electricity usage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile 10-in-1 cooking capabilities.
- ✓ Speedy cooking reduces energy waste.
- ✓ 28 smart programs for effortless meal preparation.
- ✓ User-friendly interface with clear controls.
Why We Recommend It
This Instant Pot Pro is an excellent choice for those seeking efficiency. Its ability to speed up cooking significantly makes it an energy saver, and its multi-functional nature reduces the need for multiple appliances. It’s a reliable companion for daily cooking.
Best For
Small to medium-sized families or individuals who appreciate quick meal preparation and energy efficiency in a compact unit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast cooking times save energy.
- Versatile, replacing multiple kitchen gadgets.
- Easy to use with intuitive programming.
- Durable construction ensures a long lifespan.
Cons:
- The 6-quart size might be too small for very large families.
- Initial cost is a consideration.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘I’ve owned a few multi-cookers over the years, but this Instant Pot Pro is the one that finally made me ditch my original. The sous vide function alone is worth it — it holds temperature beautifully, and my steaks and salmon come out perfect every single time. No extra gadgets cluttering up the kitchen!’
Customer Review: ‘I have been thinking about getting one of these for a couple of years now, being that I am in my 60s. I am like most people my age who are trying to size down and get rid of the excess, not wanting to add yet another appliance that sits in a cupboard and you have to read the directions again by the time you use it. But this is really easy to use and I love the recipes that came with it. I made a pork roast on Sunday and it was tender and moist. Made pulled pork on Monday and it was a hit. I do recommend this.’
3. GreenLife 6QT Programmable Slow Cooker
The GreenLife 6QT Programmable Slow Cooker is a fantastic option if you’re on a budget but still want an energy-efficient cooking experience. Its non-toxic ceramic nonstick interior means less scrubbing and faster cleanup, and the programmable settings allow for precise cooking, preventing overcooking and wasted energy. This model proves you don’t need to spend a lot to be energy smart in the kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Toxin-free PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium-free ceramic nonstick interior.
- ✓ Easy-to-use control panel with Low, Medium, High settings and Delay Timer.
- ✓ Spacious 6QT capacity for family meals.
- ✓ Keep Warm function ensures food is ready when you are.
Why We Recommend It
This GreenLife slow cooker is a winner for its budget-friendly price and focus on health and efficiency. It’s a reliable appliance that makes delicious meals while being considerate of your energy usage and the environment, especially with its toxin-free design. For those seeking a non-toxic slow cooker, this is a superb choice.
Best For
Budget-conscious individuals or families looking for a safe, easy-to-use, and energy-efficient slow cooker for everyday meals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and energy-efficient.
- Healthy, non-toxic cooking surface.
- Programmable for convenience.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
- Ceramic pot might be less durable than stainless steel if dropped.
- Heating might be slightly less uniform than high-end models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘This is a great slow cooker. I love that the inner bowl can be put on the stove and used to brown meat or other ingredients before using as a slow cooker. I had a problem with my old slow cooker, which had lost one of the closing clamps to hold the lid down. That had a stoneware pot and was very heavy.’
Customer Review: ‘There’s a lot to love about this crockpot. The nonstick interior pot is lightweight and versatile. You can use it to brown meats and then place directly in the pot holder. And it’s easy to clean. I only purchase crockpots with this type of insert. I have 3 from different manufacturers and love them all. This one is a great addition.’
4. West Bend 4-Quart Manual Slow Cooker
The West Bend 4-Quart Manual Slow Cooker is a straightforward and energy-efficient option for smaller households or those who prefer simpler controls. Its manual settings are easy to manage, ensuring you don’t accidentally use more energy than necessary. This model is great for cooking smaller batches of food efficiently, making it a practical choice for saving energy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact 4-quart capacity, perfect for smaller meals.
- ✓ Simple manual settings (Low, High, Warm).
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe ceramic crock and glass cover for easy cleanup.
- ✓ Oval ceramic crock fits smaller roasts and chickens.
Why We Recommend It
For those who want a no-fuss approach to slow cooking, the West Bend is ideal. Its smaller size means less energy is needed to heat the contents, and the simple controls prevent energy waste. It’s a great example of a basic yet effective affordable slow cooker that prioritizes efficiency.
Best For
Individuals, couples, or small families who need a reliable and simple slow cooker for everyday use and smaller portion sizes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Energy efficient due to its size and manual controls.
- Very affordable and easy to operate.
- Simple to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Compact footprint for easy storage.
Cons:
- Lacks programmable features.
- Lid may not seal tightly for transport.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘Super cute little crockpot that works well for smaller households. I bought this for my daughter who moved in with some roommates, and it was the perfect size for their household. She used it just for herself as well when making batch meals. Works great for cooking at home, but the top does not have a tight seal.’
Customer Review: ‘This 4-quart slow cooker is amazing and does exactly what it is supposed to do!I was worried that it would be too small for our family of 5, but it has exceeded my expectations. Picture shows the size next to our old 7 quart crockpot. I am still able to make a full size dinner that feeds the whole family.’
5. Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Probe
The Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Probe offers advanced features that contribute to its energy efficiency by ensuring precise cooking temperatures and times. The patented temperature probe prevents overcooking, which means less wasted energy. Its clip-tight lid is also great for portability, reducing spills and ensuring your meals are ready to serve anywhere.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Patented temperature probe for precise cooking to your desired temperature.
- ✓ Clip-tight gasket lid for secure transport and to lock in heat.
- ✓ Digital controls for easy programming of time and temperature.
- ✓ 6-quart capacity is ideal for many household sizes.
Why We Recommend It
This Hamilton Beach model is a standout for its intelligent design that helps save energy. By ensuring food is cooked perfectly without overdoing it, it minimizes wasted heat and electricity. It’s a testament to how smart features can make a slow cooker more energy efficient and a joy to use for everything from daily dinners to slow cooker emergency meals.
Best For
Cooks who want precise control over their meals, especially when cooking meats, and appreciate energy-saving features and portability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Precise temperature control via probe saves energy.
- Secure lid for easy and spill-free transport.
- Digital programming adds convenience.
- Good capacity for families.
Cons:
- Probe requires careful insertion and monitoring.
- Can take a bit longer to reach temperature compared to some models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘We had to replace our very old crockpot when the knob broke off. That one had an autoshift mode that made day long cooking a breeze. This goes beyond that with the thermometer. We tried a 6 lb turkey breast with the probe and it worked perfectly. It went to warm once it was done. No work required on my part, so it was a perfect success.’
Customer Review: ‘Simple to use with electronic control panel. Takes a few minutes to heat up, even on high. Otherwise works well with even cooking and cooking within appropriate timeframe. Love the locking lid. Easy to transport now, fewer spills. Easy to clean. Haven’t used probe yet but is definitely an advantage for cooking meat to a certain temperature.’
Complete Buying Guide for Slow Cooker Energy Saver Models
Essential Factors We Consider
When looking for a slow cooker that’s also an energy saver, we focus on a few key aspects. Firstly, efficiency in cooking time is paramount – models that cook food thoroughly in less time naturally use less energy. We also consider the quality of insulation and lid seal; a good seal prevents heat from escaping, meaning the appliance doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain temperature. Programmable features are a plus, as they allow for precise control, preventing overcooking and unnecessary energy expenditure. Lastly, the overall build quality and durability mean the appliance will last longer, providing consistent energy-efficient performance for years. For those concerned about safety and efficiency, models with features like emergency shutoff can offer peace of mind and prevent energy waste in unexpected situations.
Budget Planning
The good news is that energy-saving slow cookers are available across a range of prices. While high-tech models with advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity or precise temperature probes might come with a higher initial cost, they often offer superior energy efficiency over time. Simpler, manual models can also be very energy-efficient, especially if they have a good seal and are appropriately sized for your typical cooking needs. When budgeting, consider the long-term savings on your electricity bill as a return on your investment. A budget-friendly best budget slow cooker can still be an excellent energy saver if chosen wisely.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an energy-saving slow cooker doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or convenience. In fact, many of these models enhance your cooking experience with smart features and efficient designs. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, there’s a slow cooker out there that can help you prepare delicious meals while being mindful of your energy consumption. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect model for your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do slow cookers save energy compared to other cooking methods?
A: Slow cookers use lower temperatures over longer periods, which is generally more energy-efficient than high-heat cooking methods like broiling or baking in a conventional oven. They also typically consume less electricity than stovetop cooking for extended periods.
Q: Are programmable slow cookers more energy-efficient?
A: Yes, programmable slow cookers can be more energy-efficient because they allow you to set specific cooking times and temperatures, preventing overcooking and unnecessary energy use. Many also automatically switch to a “keep warm” setting, which uses less energy than continuing to cook.
Q: Does the size of the slow cooker affect its energy consumption?
A: Generally, yes. A smaller slow cooker will use less energy than a larger one to heat up and maintain temperature, assuming both are filled to a similar proportion. It’s best to choose a size that fits your typical portion needs to avoid wasting energy on heating an oversized pot.
Q: How can I maximize energy savings when using my slow cooker?
A: Ensure the lid is sealed tightly, avoid lifting the lid frequently (as heat escapes), and choose the appropriate size for your meal. Also, consider using the lowest effective setting for the required cooking time.
In conclusion, investing in a slow cooker designed with energy efficiency in mind is a smart move for both your wallet and the environment. These appliances offer a convenient and delicious way to prepare meals while minimizing your energy footprint. Whether you opt for a feature-rich multi-cooker or a simple, manual model, our top picks provide excellent performance and energy-saving capabilities. Explore the options above and find the perfect slow cooker energy saver model to revolutionize your kitchen!
