Holiday Energy Saving Tips

While the holiday season is one of the most wonderful times of the year, it can also be the most costly time of the year. Outside of Christmas shopping, consumers spend a large amount of money on high utility bills. Below are some tips for saving energy during the holidays. 

Deck the Halls with LED Lights

LED Lights use 70 percent less electricity than regular incandescent Christmas lights and look just as beautiful for decorations inside and outside of your home. Although LED lights typically cost more, the cost is offset by lower energy bills and a longer lifespan. In addition, LED lights are also much more eco-friendly, brighter, and safer to use than incandescent holiday lights.

Limit the number of hours that you leave holiday lights on, this tip is even more important if you are using traditional incandescent lighting. Consider using an automatic timer, to customize lights to turn off and on at specific times of the day. 

The Weather Outside is Frightful, But the Cooking is So Delightful

Cooking multiple items at the same time is a great way to conserve energy. It takes the same amount of energy to heat a full oven as it does a nearly empty one. While it may be tempting to check food in the oven, overdoing it can contribute to wasting energy. Every time you open the oven door, you are lowering the temperature by as much as 25 degrees, increasing cooking time and energy use. For smaller items, consider using your microwave and toaster oven, this can help to reduce energy usage by 50%. 

The More, the Merrier

As more guests arrive to your home, it’s wise to turn down the thermostat several degrees, as the extra bodies create extra warmth. During the day time you can also open the curtains in your home and use the sunlight as a bonus way to bring heat inside. Try to keep your thermostat set to 68 degrees; each degree above 68 can add as much as four percent to your utility bill. 

Don’t Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle

Electronics are extremely popular gifts during Christmas time but they can also contribute to high energy bills. If you’re shopping for electronics, choose EnergyStar labeled items, which use up to 60% less energy than non-certified electronics. If you plan to be away from home during the holiday season, remember to unplug items that drain energy even when they are not being used (computers, televisions, chargers). 

Tis the Season to Be Freezing

Proper insulation is one of the biggest ways to help reduce energy costs. If your home is not properly weatherized, warm air will constantly leak from your home. Inspect your home to check for areas where air may be coming in and make necessary home improvements where needed. Seal drafty spaces and apply caulk around windows and doors to prevent heat from escaping.