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Green Idea: Minimize Energy Usage from Holiday Lighting

Nov 30, 2009

Notice I didn't title this post "SAVE Energy…" because we all know that putting up holiday lights is really no way to reduce energy usage. But there are some things you can do to slow down that meter and control your carbon footprint. Try a few of these tips and you'll notice a lower electric bill compared to last year.

Photo via Creative Commons License from Flickr user lecates.

Use LED lights instead of incandescent lights.

Yes, they are more expensive, for now. But they will last longer and cost far less to run. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, LED bulbs are up to 90 percent more efficient than their incandescent equivalents. They calculate the savings: "A household burning 10 strands of lights for eight hours a day for a month at $0.0853 per kilowatt-hour would spend $127.67 for large, incandescent bulbs, $7.20 for traditional mini-lights, and just $0.72 for LEDs."

In addition, LEDs last up to 100,000 hours (about 20 years), and remain cool, allaying fire concerns. They're available in almost as many styles as the old-fashioned bulbs, and the price comes down a bit each year. For a large selection, try holidayleds.com.

Use timers.

This way there's no forgetting to turn them off, and you don't have to go out in the cold to plug them in. Try this simple and inexpensive timer from Amazon.

Keep it simple.

A simpler display will save energy, save time, and save you from being "that neighbor."

Enjoy candlelight.

It's the perfect time of year to turn down the household lights and enjoy some mood lighting. Just be sure to burn candles within sight and far from anything flammable. Go for soy candles to maintain air quality. Try this beautiful set of three handmade soy candles scented with cedar, fir, balsam, and spice from Etsy seller Mireio.

Do you have more ideas for saving energy during the holidays? Post them in the comments below. —Diane

 TAGS: christmas hanukkah holidays led lights energy saving green decor

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