The holidays are a time for celebration, family, and fun—but they can also be a time for high energy bills. As you decorate your home, cook festive meals, and enjoy the warmth of the season, it’s easy to forget the impact these activities have on your energy usage. However, with a little planning and a few simple changes, you can keep your energy consumption in check and still enjoy everything the holidays have to offer. Here are some helpful tips from your utility company on how to save energy this holiday season.
1. Be Mindful of Holiday Lighting
Bright, colorful lights are a staple of holiday décor, but they can also be energy hogs if you’re not careful. Here are a few tips to reduce their impact:
- Switch to LED Lights: If you haven’t already, make the switch to energy-efficient LED holiday lights. They use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last longer, too!
- Use Timers or Smart Plugs: Set timers for your lights to turn on and off automatically, so they’re not left on all night. Alternatively, invest in smart plugs that can be controlled with your phone or voice commands.
- Turn Off Lights When Not in Use: Make it a habit to turn off your holiday lights when you leave the house or before going to bed. It’s a small effort that can make a big difference on your energy bill.
2. Cook Efficiently for Holiday Meals
Holiday meals are a time for family and tradition, but cooking large meals can lead to high energy usage. Here are some ways to reduce energy consumption in the kitchen:
- Use a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: These appliances use less energy compared to an oven. They are perfect for preparing large batches of food without heating up the whole kitchen.
- Bake in Batches: If you need to use the oven, try to bake multiple items at once. This way, you can maximize the oven’s energy efficiency.
- Consider a Microwave: For reheating leftovers or preparing small dishes, the microwave uses much less energy than an oven or stove.
3. Optimize Your Heating and Cooling
Winter temperatures often mean higher heating bills, but there are ways to keep your home warm without overworking your heating system:
- Adjust Your Thermostat: Lower your thermostat by a few degrees, especially when you’re out of the house or sleeping. A smart thermostat can help you program temperature changes automatically to save energy.
- Use Space Heaters Wisely: Instead of heating your entire home, consider using a space heater in the rooms you use most often. Be sure to turn them off when you leave the room to prevent unnecessary energy use.
- Seal Drafts: Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed to keep warm air inside. Use draft stoppers or weather stripping to minimize heat loss.
4. Save Energy While Entertaining
If you’re hosting family and friends this holiday season, your energy usage can spike with all the extra cooking, cleaning, and socializing. Here are some tips for keeping your energy use in check while still being a gracious host:
- Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: If you’re using appliances like a dishwasher or washing machine, make sure they’re full before running them. This way, you’re not wasting energy on half-loads.
- Encourage Shorter Showers: With more people in the house, it’s easy for hot water usage to increase. Encourage guests to take shorter showers to save on water heating costs.
- Switch to Energy-Efficient Décor: Consider using battery-operated decorations, such as wreaths or tabletop displays, instead of those that require plugging in.
5. Unplug Devices When Not in Use
Holiday decorations, gadgets, and gifts often lead to many electronics being plugged in at once. While they might not be in use, many devices continue to consume power in “standby” mode. You can:
- Unplug Devices: When not in use, unplug appliances, chargers, and electronics to avoid “phantom” energy draw.
- Use Power Strips: Plug multiple devices into a single power strip and switch it off when the devices are not in use.
6. Consider Your Energy Provider’s Savings Programs
Many utility companies offer programs to help customers save energy. Check with your energy provider to see if they offer any of the following:
- Rebates for Energy-Efficient Appliances: Some companies offer rebates on energy-efficient appliances or smart thermostats.
- Demand Response Programs: These programs encourage customers to reduce their energy use during peak hours in exchange for incentives or savings on future bills.
- Energy Audits: Some utilities offer free or discounted energy audits to help identify areas where you can save.
7. Encourage Sustainable Gift Giving
Consider giving gifts that help recipients save energy as well! There are a variety of energy-efficient products, like smart thermostats, LED bulbs, or even solar-powered gadgets. By choosing sustainable gifts, you not only promote energy savings in your own home but also encourage loved ones to do the same.
Wrapping It Up: Enjoy the Season While Saving Energy
The holidays are about creating memories, not worrying about high energy bills. With these tips, you can reduce your energy consumption, lower your utility bills, and still celebrate the season to its fullest.
As your utility company, we’re committed to helping you stay efficient and save where possible. Visit our Energy Resource Center and resources page for more energy-saving resources or if you have questions about your energy usage.
Wishing you a happy, warm, and energy-efficient holiday season!
