Happy holidays everyone, this is Andre from the Watt’s Team here to share some easy ways you can save energy and money on your monthly bill, as you enjoy the holiday season. Stringing lights, giving gifts and cooking for family and friends are important holiday traditions for many of us across Florida. However, before you kick off the festive season, consider how these activities may impact your energy bill. Whether it’s more efficient string lights, simple kitchen swaps or maximizing your efficiency even with extra family members at home, there are plenty of ways to save money. The Watt’s Team is here to help you with some easy tips, so your holidays are spent full of joy, wonderful memories and energy savings!
Decorate without breaking the bank
Decorate smarter, not harder! The holidays are a great time to add some extra flair to your home, but consider how to make it festive without raising your energy costs. One way is to switch to LED string lights that use 80% to 90% less energy and can last 10 times as long as standard incandescent bulbs. Also, beware of inflatable décor. It’s a fun addition, but it can turn out to be more expensive than you think. For example, an animated snow globe running throughout December can add nearly $15 to your energy bill. Remember, some decorations use no energy at all. Consider outdoor ornaments, wreaths and ribbons to brighten up your space without using any additional energy.
Gifting with energy efficiency in mind
One of the best parts of the holiday season is finding that perfect gift for everyone on your list. What if your gifts also allowed your friends and family to save on their energy bill? Help your friends and family save, too, with energy-efficient gifts, such as a smart thermostat that can help save about $50 a year on your energy bill. Looking for that blockbuster present for a special someone? If it’s an appliance or electronic, be sure to look for the ENERGY STAR® logo. These items use 40% less energy than comparable models without the rating.
Delicious meals don’t have to waste energy
The holiday season is a great time for sharing meaningful meals with close family, but that means cooking a bit more than usual. Consider firing up the grill for those lamb chops or that tasty roast beef. Cooking outside will keep your home cool, allowing your A/C to take a much-needed rest. When cooking indoors, always use the smallest appliance needed for the task. If you really need to get the oven going, make sure to check on the food by using the oven light rather than opening the door and letting all that heat escape and warm up your home.
At the end of the day, the holidays are a time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family. With these tips, you can do all that and more — without spending time worrying about your energy bill. For more ways to save all year long, check out the Watt's Happening blog where you can find tips from the entire Watt’s Team!