Holiday Decorations: How to Stay Energy Efficient & Safe
The holidays are here, and for many, that means it’s time to deck the halls—and the yard—with twinkling lights, inflatables, and glowing displays. While it’s tempting to go full Clark Griswold and light up the neighborhood, over-the-top decorations can quickly drive up energy costs and even pose safety risks. But don’t worry! With a few smart tips, you can keep your home festive, energy-efficient, and safe all season long.
Make the Switch to LED Lights
If you’re still using old incandescent holiday lights, it’s time for an upgrade. LED lights use up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer. They also produce less heat, reducing the risk of fire hazards. Bonus: LED lights come in all shapes, colors, and styles, so you won’t have to sacrifice any holiday spirit. Want to rival Clark Griswold without blowing your budget? LEDs are your best bet.
Use Timers and Smart Plugs
Leaving your lights on all night might make your house the star of the block, but it’s also a major energy drain. Plugging your lights into timers or smart plugs allows you to set specific hours for your decorations to shine—like from dusk to bedtime. Some smart plugs even let you control decorations from your phone, so you can turn them off without stepping outside in the cold.
Go Solar with Outdoor Decorations
For outdoor displays, consider solar-powered lights. They charge during the day and automatically turn on at night, giving you a dazzling display without adding to your electricity bill. They’re also an eco-friendly option, perfect for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint this season.
Watch Out for Overloading Circuits
We love a good holiday display, but overloading your outlets with too many strands of lights or inflatables can lead to blown fuses—or worse, a fire. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for how many light strands can be safely connected. When in doubt, spread the load across multiple circuits and avoid daisy-chaining too many power strips.
Opt for Energy-Efficient Inflatables
If your yard isn’t complete without a giant glowing snowman, make sure to choose inflatables with built-in LED lighting and energy-efficient motors. Set them on timers to keep them inflated for a few festive hours each evening, rather than running all day and night.
Completely Unplug Decorations During the Day
If your lights and inflatables don’t have timers, make it a habit to unplug them during daylight hours. This simple step prevents unnecessary energy use and lowers your holiday energy bill. (And no, Clark Griswold’s sun-blocking yard display is not a reason to skip this!)
Keep Safety Top of Mind
Holiday decorations aren’t just an energy consideration—they’re a safety one, too. Inspect all cords for damage before plugging them in, and never use indoor lights outside. Keep decorations away from flammable materials like curtains or dry trees, and use weatherproof extension cords for outdoor displays. If it rains or snows, double-check that all outdoor connections are sealed to prevent short circuits.
Consider Smaller Displays with Big Impact
Sometimes less is more. A well-placed string of lights or a spotlight on your front door can create a festive look without maxing out your circuits—or your budget. Strategic decoration can still make your home merry and bright while keeping energy use in check.
Keep the Holiday Spirit Bright (Without Breaking the Bank)
We get it—the holidays are a time for joy, and a beautiful light display can bring smiles to the whole neighborhood. But with some energy-efficient choices and a little attention to safety, you can enjoy your decorations without turning your home into a power plant. After all, the holidays are about more than lights—they’re about sharing warmth and joy.
So go ahead, decorate your heart out—but keep it efficient and safe. Happy Holidays from all of us at NextVolt Energy!