5 Ways to Have an Energy Efficient Christmas

Christmas is a magical time of year but it can also be stressful as we worry about all the extra money we’re spending on gifts, parties, decorations, and food. One easy way to keep expenses in check is by being mindful about our energy consumption. Here are a few quick tips to help keep your utility from ballooning out of control.

#1: Buy LED lights

If you’re decorating your house with old incandescent lights, considering replacing them in LED lights this year. New lights are much more efficient, as they use over 70% less energy than traditional light bulbs. If you decorate a tree and the outside of your house, you could save over $100 every year by using LED lights. Plus, they stay cool and resist breakage so you don’t need to worry about your children hurting their fingers. LED are also long-lasting, with the U.S. Department of Energy stating that these lights can last for an amazing 40 holiday seasons.

#2: Install a light timer

You want your home to look festive but make sure the effort’s not going to waste. Put your outside lights and Christmas tree on timers. There’s no need to have lights on in the middle of the night and it’s easy to forget to turn them off. Light timers ensure that your lights are off when no one is around to enjoy them.

#3: Purchase a fiber optic tree

If you’re in the market for a new artificial tree, consider a fiber optic one. These trees have lights built directly in so you can avoid the tedious process of stringing up lights. The light is derived from a single large bulb (usually contained in the tree’s base) that transmits light to all the tips of the tree. The bulb might have a color wheel, which causes the tree needs to change color in a regular pattern. Fiber optic lights are generally fitted with LED lights so the lights are energy efficient and cool to the touch. They’re also very resistant to fire and can last for 20 years. While the effect of the tree is nontraditional, they’re a beautiful option.

#4: Maintain your fireplace

If you have a fireplace, you love sitting around it during the winter. But make sure it’s not negatively affecting your heating bills. Proper maintenance, such as sealing the flue damper and caulking around the hearth, are important steps in keeping out the cold air. You can also consider tempered glass doors or a heat-air exchange system to blow warm air into the room. Plus, always make sure to keep the damper closed when you’re not using the fireplace.

#5: Cover window drafts

Old, drafty windows can be winterized by installing clear plastic film to the inside of your windows. Installation, while time-consuming, requires only inexpensive materials. Insulating drapes and other window treatments can also be used to block drafts and improve energy efficiency.

If you’re looking for other ways to keep your home running comfortably and efficiently this winter, give us a call! Whether you need HVAC maintenance and tune-ups, a programmable thermostat, or heating zone assessments, we have the tools you need to improve your home’s efficiency.

 

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