The holidays are an expensive time of year. There are presents to buy, flights to pay for, and skyrocketing energy bills from the extra electricity used to power elaborate holiday light displays. We can’t help with your shopping list, but we do have a few holiday energy saving tips to save money on electrical decorations.
Choose LED – LED Christmas lights use 90% less energy than standard incandescent lights. The idea of investing in new lights may be unappealing if you already have several strands tangled in your attic, but your energy savings will be enough to offset the cost of new ones.
Set timers – When you’re rushing out the door in the morning or eager to go to bed at night, it can be easy to forget to turn off a couple strings of holiday lights. Setting a timer ensures that your lights don’t get left on to rack up energy bills when you’re not even around to appreciate it. Not only that, but timers also help reduce the risk of lights overheating and becoming a fire hazard.
Limit your outdoor displays – It may be tempting to deck your house out in the most elaborate light display you can design—and to leave it switched on around the clock for maximum holiday spirit—but the fact is that more lights equals more electricity. If you want to keep your energy bills in check, scale back on the light show.
Alternate light sources – The lights on your Christmas tree and other electric powered holiday decorations produce a good deal of light. If you have your tree lights turned on, try keeping your overhead lights off. The tree will illuminate the room with a festive glow that will likely be more than enough light to get by on.
Go old school – Not everything has to be about flashing lights. Don’t discount the sparkle a simple strand of tinsel or ribbon can add to your home. As you plan your decorations this year, consider swapping out a few strands of lights for strands of garland, or trim your tree with reflective ornaments to amplify the shine.
Need new or updated home electrical to accommodate your holiday displays? Bonfe’s expert electricians can install, repair, or upgrade any outlet, switch, or fixture inside or outside your home. Give us a call to schedule your electrical service visit.
