As the holiday season approaches, many households are gearing up for festive decorations, and while the twinkling lights can add a warm glow to your home, they might also lead to higher energy bills. The good news is that there are strategies to keep the holiday spirit alive without burning a hole in your wallet.
One of the most effective ways to save energy during the holidays is by opting for LED lights. These lights use approximately 80 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. The potential savings depend on factors such as the number of hours the lights are on each day.
A recent study found that replacing five strings of incandescent outdoor lights with LEDs could slash an electricity bill from $14 to a mere 22 cents. Similarly, switching from incandescent lights to LED bulbs on an indoor tree could reduce monthly costs from $15 to just $2, according to another report.
The inefficiency of incandescent bulbs stems from the fact that around 90% of their energy is converted into heat rather than light. In contrast, LEDs convert nearly all their energy into light, making them a more energy-efficient option. Additionally, LEDs are safer, especially for indoor use, as they produce minimal heat. This also allows for the connection of up to 20 strings of LEDs, compared to the limited three to five strings in a chain for incandescent sets.
Beyond their energy efficiency, LEDs have a longer lifespan of around 200,000 hours or more—approximately 25 times longer than incandescent lights. The durability of LEDs is attributed to their construction with epoxy instead of glass.
However, not all LEDs are equal, and poorly designed ones may exhibit issues such as flickering, color changes, or power consumption when turned off. To avoid such problems, consumers are encouraged to purchase Energy Star rated LEDs. These products must use 75 percent less energy than incandescent lighting and pass rigorous tests to earn the Energy Star certification.
For those looking to further reduce holiday energy expenses, alternative options include decorative solar light sets that store energy during the day and illuminate at night. Additionally, using timers can be a practical way to cut down on energy use, particularly for those who may forget to turn off the lights before bedtime. By implementing these strategies, households can enjoy a festive atmosphere while keeping energy costs in check this holiday season.
