Discovering Simple Holiday Energy Efficiency Tips to Save Big This Winter
As winter descends upon us, the spirit of the holidays brings not just joy and celebration, but also a rise in energy expenses. This year, Ameren Missouri is making it easy for families to keep their celebrations bright and save money simultaneously. By following a few straightforward energy efficiency tips, households can cut down their bills by as much as $70 during this festive season, depending on their home size, energy equipment, and usage habits.
One of the most distinctive features of the holiday season is the array of sparkling lights that adorn homes and gardens. Ameren encourages families to switch to ENERGY STAR® certified LED light strings, which harness up to 75% less energy compared to traditional incandescent lights. Not only do these energy-efficient bulbs last longer, but they can also help a typical household save more than $30 in energy costs during the holiday season. Moreover, LED lights pose a reduced fire hazard, offering peace of mind alongside savings.
Using timers and smart plugs is another simple strategy that can lead to savings. Lights can be programmed to operate only during essential times—after dusk and during evening peak hours. This effortless adjustment could save around $5 in total holiday lighting expenses.
In homes heated entirely by electricity, a slight reduction in thermostat settings can result in additional savings. For instance, lowering the thermostat by a few degrees while cooking or hosting gatherings may trim $5 to $10 off heating costs.
For those looking to invest a little into long-term savings, Ameren's online marketplace sells smart thermostats for as low as $1. These can optimize heating and cooling efficiency, yielding more savings year-round.
Outdoor decoration is essential, but ensuring energy efficiency while displaying seasonal cheer can help too. When setting up your outdoor decor, plug into GFCI outlets equipped with weatherproof covers, elevate electrical connections off the ground, and remember to turn off inflatables when not in use. Such practices could save between $10 and $15 over the holiday season alone.
Holiday baking marathons can also be more energy-efficient. Instead of opening the oven door repeatedly, which causes heat loss, families can cook multiple dishes back-to-back or use the oven light to check on food. This method not only makes cooking seamless but also helps in conserving energy across the holidays.
Keeping your Christmas tree away from heat sources like vents or radiators is vital. Ensuring proper air circulation around your tree can prevent unnecessary energy waste—further contributing to winter bill management.
Another tip includes managing food storage efficiently. Let hot dishes cool in shallow containers before refrigerating to assist the refrigerator in operating more efficiently, consequently cutting down energy use.
For those planning holiday trips, setting your water heater to
Embrace LED Lighting
One of the most distinctive features of the holiday season is the array of sparkling lights that adorn homes and gardens. Ameren encourages families to switch to ENERGY STAR® certified LED light strings, which harness up to 75% less energy compared to traditional incandescent lights. Not only do these energy-efficient bulbs last longer, but they can also help a typical household save more than $30 in energy costs during the holiday season. Moreover, LED lights pose a reduced fire hazard, offering peace of mind alongside savings.
Smart Use of Timers
Using timers and smart plugs is another simple strategy that can lead to savings. Lights can be programmed to operate only during essential times—after dusk and during evening peak hours. This effortless adjustment could save around $5 in total holiday lighting expenses.
Thermostat Management
In homes heated entirely by electricity, a slight reduction in thermostat settings can result in additional savings. For instance, lowering the thermostat by a few degrees while cooking or hosting gatherings may trim $5 to $10 off heating costs.
The Benefits of Smart Thermostats
For those looking to invest a little into long-term savings, Ameren's online marketplace sells smart thermostats for as low as $1. These can optimize heating and cooling efficiency, yielding more savings year-round.
Optimizing Outdoor Decorations
Outdoor decoration is essential, but ensuring energy efficiency while displaying seasonal cheer can help too. When setting up your outdoor decor, plug into GFCI outlets equipped with weatherproof covers, elevate electrical connections off the ground, and remember to turn off inflatables when not in use. Such practices could save between $10 and $15 over the holiday season alone.
Batch Cooking and Efficient Use of Ovens
Holiday baking marathons can also be more energy-efficient. Instead of opening the oven door repeatedly, which causes heat loss, families can cook multiple dishes back-to-back or use the oven light to check on food. This method not only makes cooking seamless but also helps in conserving energy across the holidays.
Tree Placement and Maintenance
Keeping your Christmas tree away from heat sources like vents or radiators is vital. Ensuring proper air circulation around your tree can prevent unnecessary energy waste—further contributing to winter bill management.
Food Storage Strategies
Another tip includes managing food storage efficiently. Let hot dishes cool in shallow containers before refrigerating to assist the refrigerator in operating more efficiently, consequently cutting down energy use.
Traveling Smart
For those planning holiday trips, setting your water heater to
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