The holiday season is upon us, which means it's time to decorate your home with festive lights. However, if you're concerned about your electricity bill, you might be wondering how much power holiday lights use.
A typical strand of 100 incandescent mini-lights uses about 40 watts of electricity. If you have multiple strands of lights or larger bulbs, the wattage will be higher. LED lights use significantly less energy, with a typical 100-bulb strand using only 4.8 watts. That's a 90% reduction in electricity usage compared to incandescent lights!
Switch to LEDs to Reduce Power Consumption
Now that we know how much power our holiday lights use, let's talk about some ways to make them more energy-efficient. Firstly, switching to LED lights is a no-brainer. Not only do they use significantly less energy, but they also last longer and are more durable than incandescent lights.
LEDs are also available in a wide variety of colors and styles, so you're sure to find a set of lights that matches your decor. If you're not ready to replace all of your existing lights, consider switching out just a portion of them each year as a way to gradually transition to LED.
Another way to save energy is to invest in a timer or smart plug for your holiday lights. This way, you can set them to turn on and off at specific times rather than leaving them on all day and night. This will not only save energy but also extend the life of your bulbs.
What If I Still Want to Use Incandescent Lights?
If you're still using incandescent lights, consider using fewer strands or using them for shorter periods of time. Instead of covering your entire house in these lights, you can use them to focus on highlighting a few key areas.
You can also think about adding solar-powered lights for outdoor decorations, such as your front porch or tree. These lights are fully powered by the sun, so you'll save money on your electricity bill while reducing your carbon footprint.
Contact Us for Electrical Services
Decorating for the holidays is a fun way to get into the spirit of the season, but it shouldn't come at the cost of a high electricity bill. By switching to LED lights, using a timer or smart plug, reducing the number of strands of lights, and using solar-powered lights, you can make your holiday decorations more energy-efficient without sacrificing their festive appeal.
You can also consult with an experienced electrician who can inspect your home’s electrical system and ensure everything is running as efficiently as possible. We at Meyer's Companies Inc. are here when you need help!
Contact us online to schedule your next electrician appointment.