You can count on using more energy during the holidays, increasing your carbon footprint and utility expenses. Although you might have the prettiest holiday display each year, you’ll want to save money wherever possible so you can splurge stress-free on thoughtful gifts and festive food.
The High Cost of Christmas Cheer
Few things are as magical as Christmas decorations, from the classic tree to light-up lawn ornaments, string house lights and centerpieces. Yet, all those lights can result in costly utility bills. Of course, frequent use of kitchen appliances for holiday meals and raising the thermostat consumes even more energy than usual.
Then, you must consider other holiday expenses. For instance, a Gallup poll indicates shoppers will spend $1,012 on gifts this year, up from $975 in 2023. In another survey, 66% of Americans said they expected the holidays to put them in debt — 19% expect to take on $700 to $900, while 10% estimate over $1,000 in debt.
It isn’t just skyrocketing seasonal costs, though — consumers feel the pinch with essential items, too. Groceries, health care, bills and home expenses are pricey, especially with inflation.
Helpful savings hacks like the 30% rule — setting aside 30% of your salary for rent and other essentials — don’t account for market fluctuations, stagnant incomes and any outstanding debt repayments. Rental prices are also rising, with the average rent in Philadelphia reaching 19% higher in March 2022 than in January 2018. This makes saving energy during the holiday season even more important.
‘Tis the Season for Saving Energy: 6 Tips
You don’t necessarily need to choose between decorating your home for the holidays and saving energy. There are plenty of ways to lower your energy consumption and enjoy festive seasonal decor. Try these six tips for an energy-efficient celebration.
1. Use LED Lights
Light-emitting diode (LED) light bulbs are rapidly replacing incandescent bulbs due to their energy efficiency. LEDs consume 90% less energy than traditional bulbs without compromising brightness. They also last 15 times longer, meaning you won’t need to replace them often.
Even better, homeowners can save $225 on monthly electricity bills, which is significant during the holidays when people use more energy.
2. Put Your Christmas Tree Lights on a Timer
Have you ever forgotten to turn your Christmas tree lights off before going to bed? It’s common to get caught up in other things and overlook light displays, especially if they’re outdoors.
An affordable way to save energy is to use an automated timer and automatically schedule your lights to turn on and off. This way, you won’t have to worry about leaving them on overnight. Set the tree timer for when everyone is home from work and school until bedtime.
Schedule the outdoor house lights to turn on at dusk until a few hours later. Your neighbors will appreciate a good night’s sleep without your display keeping them awake.
3. Utilize Smart Power Strips and Plugs to Save Energy
You may not realize it, but devices use power even when turned off — also known as energy vampires. The best way to address energy waste is to use smart power strips and plugs.
Smart strips and plugs reduce excess consumption and operate on a wireless connection. This means you can control them from your smartphone, allowing you to remotely turn off lit holiday decorations when no one is home.
These innovative power strips may come equipped with a timer you can program. Other smart power strips can sense when people are in the house — this way, the tree lights will only turn on when you’re home to enjoy them.
4. Pull the Plug on High-Energy Outdoor Decor
Many homeowners are serious about stringing lights on their houses for the holidays. Some neighbors even compete to see who can outdo the other. While beautiful, your outdoor lighting display consumes serious energy.
Although cutting back on extravagant lights and lawn ornaments can be sad, it’s a great way to save energy during the holidays. Opt for lawn decorations without light features. You could also invest in solar-powered outdoor decor for nighttime illumination.
5. Cook Holiday Dinners Wisely
Are you planning a holiday party for friends and family? Cooking increases energy consumption dramatically during the season. From roasting a Christmas ham to making mashed potatoes, creamed spinach and gravy, your oven, stove, microwave and refrigerator will get a lot of use.
When you open the refrigerator or oven door, your appliances must work harder. Reduce energy use while cooking by:
- Filling a cooler with beverages so the refrigerator stays closed.
- Preparing some dishes a day or two in advance and reheating them when guests arrive.
- Using smaller pots with a cover for making stovetop dishes.
6. Optimize Thermostat Settings to Save Energy
A chilly home is uncomfortable when opening gifts or watching a Christmas movie with the family. Often, homeowners crank the heat up to keep warm in the winter.
The U.S. Department of Energy says you can save 10% annually on heating and cooling by setting your thermostat back 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit from its typical temperature for eight hours daily. In the winter, 68-70 F is ideal while awake and in the house to ensure indoor comfort and lower utility costs.
Enjoy Big Savings This Holiday Season
Stress less over an expensive electric bill at the end of the month by cutting back on energy during the holidays. Small changes amount to considerable savings where you need them the most.
