Energy bills tend to spike over the Christmas and holiday season. Decorative lighting, a house full of guests and the oven running non-stop all add up. A few straightforward changes can cut your consumption significantly without touching the festive atmosphere.
Low-energy holiday lighting: LED bulbs and timers
Fairy lights and decorative displays are one of the biggest seasonal energy draws. Here is how to keep them in check:
- Switch to LED lights: they use up to 90% less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Use timers: a plug-in timer switch automatically limits how long your decorations run each day.
- Practical tip: set your lights to come on at dusk and switch off before you go to bed.
Heating smarter during the holidays
When the house is full and the kitchen is busy, rooms warm up on their own. Use that to your advantage.
- Drop the thermostat by 1, 2°C when guests arrive. Body heat and cooking make a real difference to room temperature.
- Invest in a smart thermostat: a device like the Beghelli DOM-E smart chronothermostat lets you programme and monitor your heating remotely.
Appliances: cook cleverly, waste less
Christmas means the kitchen works overtime. Ovens, dishwashers and other appliances run harder than usual.
- Choose efficient appliances: look for high energy-class rated appliances when it is time to upgrade.
- Batch cook: roast multiple dishes at once to get the most out of a hot oven.
- Turn off lights in any room that is not being used.
Outdoor decorations: focus on what matters
For external lighting, pick specific spots rather than illuminating everything. A well-lit front door or a single tree makes more impact and uses far less power than covering the whole property.
Small habits, big difference
Efficient lighting, well-managed heating and thoughtful appliance use protect your wallet and make the holiday season more sustainable. European energy efficiency incentives may apply to certain purchases. Check the schemes available in your country before you buy.