By Krist Matthew, Energy Advisor

As the holidays approach, costs and energy efficiency, should continue to be our message to clients when it comes to home decorating. A few helpful tips that can be provided to clients are as follows:

Upgrade Incandescent Decorative Lights to LED Models

Traditional incandescent holiday lights are very inefficient, tend to be made of glass (which break), and turn much of the electrical energy into heat. LED holiday decorative lights use 70% less energy than traditional ones, are brighter, much cooler than incandescent lights, and are safer. Choose ENERGY STAR® certified LED light strings to save energy and to help protect the environment.

Use Rebates

Many local hardware and department stores offer rebates and coupons on  ENERGY STAR qualified Decorative Light Strings. These lights often come with a three-year warranty, are available in an array of colors, and include indoor and outdoor models.

Use Controls to Operate Lights

Using timers that automatically turn lights on when it gets dark and turn them off at midnight, depending on personal preference, can save on energy. Holiday lights are more enjoyable during the eight hours (4pm-midnight) of the evening when you can see them.

Electric Free Decorations

The holidays don’t have to just be about electric lights. There are options for decorations that do not use electricity. Decorating with reflective ornaments and tinsel, that uses natural lighting from sources around to accentuate your creativity, can really save on your holiday energy bills. Also, there are ribbons, wreaths, garlands, and reflective menorahs that can still induce holiday cheers without adding to your energy burden.

Last but not least, Happy Holidays and may they be filled with cheer and merriness.