FPL’s 10 tips to save energy for the holidays

Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) offers 10 tips to save electricity during the holidays.

“Holiday planning requires a lot of energy, but most people are not thinking about additional energy usage when it comes to cooking, entertaining and decorating,” said Sondra Houhoulis, FPL energy expert. “By adding energy efficiency to the list of holiday traditions, customers can help keep their electric bills low while making the season bright.”

Here are some easy ways to save this holiday season:

1. Deck the halls with LEDs – When it comes to holiday lighting, LED lights are the bright choice to get more for your money. The amount of power it takes to operate just one 7-watt incandescent holiday bulb could power two 24-foot LED strings – enough to light a six-foot tree. Additionally, LED light strings last about 10 times longer.
2. Set time on your side – Don’t leave your lights on all night; set them to timers so they turn off when you’re asleep.
3. Switch your non-holiday lights – Change guest room and common area lighting to LEDs. Not only do they save money, but they produce less heat and are safer to the touch.
4. Turn it off – Remind guests to turn off the light and the ceiling fan when they leave the room. Running a ceiling fan 24/7 costs about US$7 a month.
5. Stop peeking – Ovens lose a lot of heat when opened and require significant energy to heat back up to the appropriate temperature. Instead, when you have to sneak-a-peek, turn the oven light on and look through the interior window.
6. Choose glass or ceramic pans for the oven – These pans heat faster than metal ones and allow you to set the temperature 25 degrees lower than a recipe suggests for the same cooking time.
7. Don’t forget your crock-pot – Use smaller appliances such as crock-pots, microwaves and toaster ovens when possible. These can be much more energy-efficient for side dishes or small meals.
8. Select energy-efficient electronics – When it comes to buying gifts for your loved ones, opt for a laptop computer over a desktop computer. Laptops require 50 to 80 percent less power than a desktop computer.
9. Let the star be your guide – Look for the Energy Star logo when purchasing larger electronics or appliances. Newer Energy Star models meet stricter requirements and can reduce energy usage up to 40 percent over standard models.
10. Soak up the holiday sun – Consider changing out driveway lighting with solar-powered lights to make your home a festive and energy-efficient oasis year round. They also make great energy-efficient gifts.