The holidays can bring a little more light into your home – and a little more energy use along with it. If you decorate with lights, choose LEDs. It’s a simple way to use less energy without giving up the glow.
LEDs are more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs because they convert more electricity into light rather than heat. They also last longer, which means fewer bulbs to replace over time.
The benefits aren't limited to holiday decorations. You can use LEDs in lamps, ceiling fixtures, porch lights and other places throughout your home.
Make your holiday display more energy efficient
As you pull out decorations or shop for new lights, consider these ways to save energy:
- Replace older holiday string lights with LEDs. You don't have to replace everything at once. Start with the string lights you use most often and continue to choose LEDs when you need to replace older sets.
- Choose the right lights for the location. To decorate outside, look for products labeled for outdoor use. Never use indoor lights outside.
- Use a timer. Set holiday lights to turn on when you'll enjoy them and turn off later in the evening. That way you won’t waste light on empty rooms or keep outdoor displays glowing all night.
- Look beyond holiday lights. As older bulbs burn out around your home, replace them with LEDs. Prioritize fixtures you use most often to get more value from the switch.
- Choose brightness based on lumens. Watts tell you how much energy bulbs use, lumens how much light they produce. When you compare LED bulbs, use lumens to find the brightness you want.
A few lighting changes now can continue to pay off after decorations come down. Switch frequently used indoor and outdoor lights to LEDs to reduce everyday energy waste throughout the year.
Find more ways to save energy with lighting.