The holiday season is upon us. A time to decorate and celebrate with the ones we love. Unfortunately, it’s also a time for increased heating costs, increased appliance use, and additional lighting around your home. The good news? You can be festive, creative and energy efficient with a few eco-friendly tips during the most wonderful time of the year.
- Add a smart thermostat to your holiday wish list. Ask Santa to see what the ETG Marketplace has to offer.
- Create your own winter wonderland with electricity-free holiday decorations. A few of your favorite shiny and sparkly ornaments, tinsel and mirrors can maximize the effects of your existing lighting without using more energy.
- Decorate your home with energy-efficient holiday ornaments like ENERGY STAR® certified decorative light strings or LED lights. Not only do they shine brighter and last longer, but they’re also safer and less expensive.
- Conserve appliance use – unplug the coffee maker, blender, toaster oven and those smaller appliances when you don’t need them.
- Re-use/re-gift when possible. Get creative when it comes to sustainable gift giving this year by exploring clutter-free gifts like experiences to edible treats.
- Keep the lights on – but not all night! Set a timer for your lights and decorations to save money and conserve energy by ensuring they turn on and off at specific times.
- Turn down the heat before guests arrive to your next gathering. The extra body heat should help maintain a comfortable temperature. Or consider lighting a fire to add a little warmth.
- Let it glow. Let it glow. Let it glow. Reduce energy at home by using your Christmas tree lights to illuminate your indoor space.
- Choose a non-electric gift for your loved one. But if you are purchasing electronics, consider an energy-efficient one - and don’t forget about the rechargeable batteries.
- Carry reusable bags while shopping for the holidays to reduce waste or consolidate your purchases into as few bags as possible.
- Prepare your holiday feast by baking multiple dishes together, while keeping the oven door closed as much as possible.
- Enjoy family time the old-fashioned way! Turn off the tv and devices and have a holiday game or puzzle night!