If your home is lit up inside and out with holiday decorations, you’re probably looking for ways to avoid a giant spike in electricity costs for the month of December. Lucky for you, we’ve got seven great tips you can easily take advantage of.
1. Use LED Christmas lights.
Did you know that LED Christmas lights use 90% less electricity than regular Christmas lights and only cost roughly $10 a strand? So make the switch and enjoy the savings.
2. Use fiber optic decorations.
Fiber optic decorations are one of the most energy-efficient lighting options. A single light bulb located at the base of the unit lights up the entire decoration — and unlike standard Christmas lights, you don’t have to worry about replacing the entire thing prematurely if one bulb goes out.
3. Limit the time lights are on.
Don’t keep your lights on for more than six hours per day. Turn on the lights after sunset and turn them off before going to sleep. No need to keep the lights on past midnight — unless you’d like the neighborhood owls to enjoy the Christmas lights.
4. Turn off the light in the room when the tree is lit.
A dark room with a lit Christmas tree creates a special mood you’ll look forward to all year. And you’ll be saving on electricity costs. So turn off the lights and savor the special moments with family.
5. Use Energy Star electronics and appliances.
Energy Star electronics, such as TVs and Blu-Ray players, use up to 60% less electricity than non-certified electronics. Visit energystar.gov to find energy-efficient gadgets and shop smart this holiday season.
6. Use rechargeable batteries.
Purchase rechargeable batteries and commit to using them regularly to reduce your need for plugging in devices and using electrical power. Using rechargeable batteries will also help reduce the load on your electrical system and reduce the risk of tripping breakers.
7. Unplug devices before leaving for vacation.
If you’re going to be out of town for a few days or weeks, unplug devices such as chargers, TVs, coffeemakers, clocks and alarms to eliminate phantom load. Some plugged-in devices and appliances can consume energy even when turned off.