With the holidays upon us, it is a big time for expenses. You want to light up the house with Christmas lights, invite guests over for a nice meal, and get the gifts your loved ones have been eyeing throughout the year. The last thing you want to worry about is a surprise energy bill at the end of the month. So here are some tips to help you save energy over the holiday months:
Invest in LED Christmas Lights
Light-emitting diode (LED) holiday lights are far more efficient than the traditional incandescent lights. Granted, the initial cost of LED lights will be more. But ultimately making the switch will save you money in the long run. You might also consider using candles for more intimate and beautiful lighting. For safety, you might want to use a battery-operated version. And when you do turn on the lights of the tree, turn the other living room lights off to better enjoy the ambiance.
Try Energy Efficient Cooking
It usually starts with using the smaller appliances in your home. Most homeowners have a variety of appliances like crockpots, microwaves, griddles, toaster ovens, and warming plates. Put these to good use instead of always switching on the oven or stovetop. This could mean significant energy savings. And if you do recruit the bigger appliances for cooking, make sure you cook multiple dishes at once to cut down on energy usage.
Go for a Walk
You probably use the car more during the holiday season, running around shopping and delivering gifts. With the colder weather that is understandable. But before cramming in the car to look at holiday lights or deliver treats to your neighbors, think about bundling up and going for a walk. This cheap family outing will eliminate your need to fill up on gas and fill you up with the spirit of the holidays.
Avoid “On Peak” Energy Usage
In San Jose, CA your energy provider may have on peak hours where they charge you more for the energy you use. To save money, you will want to cut back on using the washing machine, clothes dryer, dishwasher, oven, and space heater during those hours. You also want to use a smart or programmable thermostat to make sure your heating doesn’t run while you are out of the house.
Unplug Phantom Energy Consumers Before You Go on Vacation
Sometimes you will choose to get away for the holidays. In these cases in addition to turning down the thermostat and putting your lights on a timer, you should also unplug your DVD players, TVs, printers, radios, and computers. Many appliances will use energy if they are plugged in, even if you don’t turn them on.
Turn the Thermostat Down When you Have Guests
Holidays often mean hosting lots of friends and family. If you do end up using your oven to cook for a bunch of people, turn the thermostat down. The combination of warm bodies and the hot stove or oven should keep your home plenty comfortable. You can also stock up on cozy blankets and extra slippers for guests to wear while they visit. This will cut down on heating costs.
For more ways to save on energy and make sure your heating in Los Gatos, CA is working efficiently, contact Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning at 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112 or call (669) 219-8957.
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