It’s the season of high electric bills. Many people decide to brighten up their homes during the holidays to enhance their festive spirit without considering what this could do to their monthly electric bills. With holiday cheer, and the decor that goes with it, comes an increase in energy consumption, including phantom load, or wasted electricity.
According to a Southern California Edison representative, your monthly bill could increase if Christmas enthusiasts are lighting their decorations every day between 5pm and 11pm from Dec. 1, through Dec. 31:
- Increase in average decorations by $5 to $7 with LED lights
- Increase in average decorations when using incandescent light: $33
- Elaborate decorations using LED lights: $47 increase
- Elaborate decorations using incandescent lights: $350 increase
What can you do to ensure that your energy bills don’t increase exponentially?
1. Use smart plugs
Smart plugs can help you save money on your energy bills. You can ensure that your lights are not always on by using smart plugs. It may be that you don’t want your lights on in the morning when they are hard to see or off just before bedtime. Smart plugs can be programmed to turn off at certain times, so you won’t waste energy.
2. Solid Lights are the Best Choice
Did you know that lights that constantly change color or twinkle use more energy? You can keep your electricity bill down during the holidays by choosing solid lights or setting them up to twinkle only occasionally.
3. LED lights are a better alternative.
LED lights are more expensive but they offer a much better value. LED lights are up to 40% more durable than incandescent bulbs and use 70% less energy. They are also not hot to touch. Gone are the days when you would burn your fingers on older lights.
4. Consider Non-lighted Decor
Consider using other decorations to add a festive feel to your home’s exterior. This will not increase your electric bill. You can decorate your home with wreaths, ornaments or ribbons without increasing your electric bill.
