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The holiday season is filled with gatherings, cooking, baking and plenty of cheer. With many activities taking place in your home to celebrate the end of the year, you might not realize all the extra energy being consumed. As you prepare for the holidays, consider incorporating these energy-efficient ideas.
Use LED Lights. Update your traditional holiday lights to light-emitting diode bulbs known as LEDs. This energy-efficient light source will keep your home merry and bright, inside and out. ENERGY STAR-labeled decorative light strings use 75 percent less energy than conventional incandescent light strings. The bulbs have no moving parts, so they are much more durable and shock-resistant than other light strings. You might also want to consider using an automatic timer that will turn on and shut off your lights at a set time to help save energy.
Adjust Your Thermostat Down During Gatherings. Planning to host friends or family for holiday celebrations? If so, consider turning down your thermostat when you have a full house. With more bodies in your home, chances are it will get warm, and there won’t be a need to constantly run your thermostat as you entertain.
Save Energy When You’re Away. Did you know some devices in your home continue to use energy and drain power even when they are turned off? These so-called “energy vampires” lurk throughout your home and can account for as much as 20 percent of your electric bill. Before leaving home for an extended stay away, identify the culprits and unplug these devices. Examples include coffee makers, toasters and other appliances that plugged in but aren’t in use all the time.
Plan Your Cooking Schedule. Baking or making special seasonal meals is a significant part of many holiday traditions. To lower your energy consumption, try baking or cooking multiple dishes in your oven simultaneously and use all oven racks. It may be tempting, but try not to peek too much at your dishes because you lose heat each time you open your oven door.