Save Money (and the Planet) With Low-Energy Lights
Christmas lights are as much a part of Christmas tradition in this part of the world as candy canes. While everyone prefers to save money, it is doubtful if people will want to cut back on the neighborhood competition of Christmas lights. The beauty of technology is that there are ways to deck the halls without breaking the budget while still bathing the home in light. Here are a few ideas from local electrical experts.
LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, are not lights in the traditional sense. They are actually semiconductors that happen to produce light. They are typically coated in some sort of plastic in order to focus and protect the light. They are incredibly long-lasting, produce almost no heat, and, best of all, they use over 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs that produce the same amount of light. The comparison of an LED to incandescent bulbs is quite stark.
|
LED |
Incandescent |
|
|
Wattage per bulb |
7 |
60 |
|
Lifespan |
1042 days |
50 days |
|
Cost |
$5-10 |
$1-2 |
|
Energy Cost |
$21 |
$150 |
There is simply no competition in the cost between the two. LEDs last longer and use much less energy. They are a much more economical as well as ecological choice. If someone used the same amount of wattage as incandescents use in LEDs, then the neighbors would need to wear sunglasses.
Choose Batteries, Not Plugs
A second way to reduce a home’s energy use is to use lights and decor that are battery operated. There are many options available, and most use readily available AAA or AA batteries. Some examples are as follows:
- LED String Lights
- LED Tea Lights
- LED Color-Changing Snowmen
- Christmas Wreaths
- Christmas Garlands
- Standing Santas
- Standing Nutcrackers
- LED reindeer
And the list goes on. Almost any kind of decoration can be found with battery operation. This will keep the electric bill from skyrocketing for the month of December.
Candles: The Original Twinkle Lights
- Use Mirrors: Mirrors help maximize the candlelight by reflecting and focusing it.
- Decorative Trays: Place a holiday-themed tray on the coffee table or side table with candles for simple but elegant decor.
- Mantelpiece Decor: A simple garland and half a dozen white candles create a lovely winter setting.
- Variety of Heights: Use several candles of different heights to make a de-light-ful centerpiece.
There are many other ways to use candles, but as with any flame, a person must be careful to place them in such a way that they are not near anything flammable. Candles should not be burned while a home is empty.
About Solaris Electric
Call Solaris Electric today for electrical services in Orlando, FL. They offer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week emergency electrical service and treat their customers like family. They are family-owned and operated.
