The holiday season is one of the most joyful times of the year, but what about the extra expenses it can bring? When shopping, traveling, gift-giving, and party hosting start to add up, it’s time to look at ways to save. One of the biggest areas you might be overlooking is your energy bill. Here are some ways to cut energy bills during the holiday season.

Cut Energy Bills During Holiday Season Guide

1. Buy LED Lights

LED lights use 70% less energy than traditional bulbs. They last up to ten times longer, they’re brighter, eco-friendly, and are safer for young children because they remain cool to the touch. Easy savings!

2. Get a Fiber Optic Tree

You can’t get more energy-efficient than fiber optic trees and decorations. They use a single LED bulb to light the entire decoration which gives the same look for much less energy consumption.

3. Limit Energy Usage

It can be tempting to leave your decorations on all day during the holiday season, you know, so the dog can enjoy the lights while you’re at work. But one of the simplest ways to cut energy bills is to limit usage. Use a timer to turn on the lights when you’ll get the most enjoyment out of them, and then off when you go to bed. Aim for six hours or less per day.

4. Candles and Creative Decorating

Candles are a beautiful and efficient lighting alternative for holiday decorating. Just make sure to properly ventilate areas with candles, and don’t let them burn when you’re not around. Ribbons, wreaths, garland, tinsel, and reflective ornaments are also festive, electricity-free options for your decorating delight.

5. Buy Energy-Free Gifts

Consider buying only gifts that don’t require electricity or batteries. In this age of technology that might sound impossible, but think of all the energy you’ll be saving!

6. Purchase Rechargeable Batteries & A Charger

If you do buy or receive gifts that require batteries, purchasing rechargeable batteries and a charger is a cost-effective alternative to disposable batteries.

7. Buy ENERGY STAR Electronics

ENERGY STAR Products use up to 60% less electricity than other non-certified brands.

8. Run a Whole-House Humidifier

You may be able to save on your energy bills during the holiday season by running a humidifier. Humidified air actually feels warmer than dry air, so you can be comfortable at lower temperatures. This is due to the fact that when there’s more water in the air, our sweat evaporates at a slower rate, leaving us feeling warmer without having to crank up the thermostat. To get a whole-home humidifier installed in your home, contact a local Healthy Air Pro.

9. Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats can lead to big energy savings by automatically lowering your thermostat while you’re at work for the day. You won’t have to pay for heat that you aren’t using and you can save between 5-15% on your heating bills for the year. Also, be sure to lower your thermostat when hosting large groups. The body heat alone will be plenty to keep everyone in your home comfortable. To get a programmable thermostat installed in your home, contact a local Healthy Air Pro.

10. Save on Fuel

Fuel costs quickly add up with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Make sure to unload your vehicle after each trip to eliminate any extra weight. You can also reduce fuel consumption by walking around the neighborhood to see all the lights this year, instead of driving.

11. Be Savvy in the Kitchen

Your kitchen can account for as much as 15% of your home’s energy use. To keep those costs as low as possible:

• Bake multiple dishes at a time
• Utilize smaller appliances
• Make sure your pots are the right size for your stove’s burners and
• Keep lids on and ovens shut when cooking to allow foods to cook faster

12. Winterize Your Home

Check out these tips on how to make sure your home is as energy efficient as possible, from your windows to your fireplace.