10 tips to save when hosting holiday guests
If you’re making your list and checking it twice, finding extra ways to save energy is always nice. Here are 10 ways to cut back on your home energy bill this holiday season:
Let the sunshine in. Keep draperies and shades open during the day, but remember to close them at night to reduce chills and cut down on drafts from cold windows.
Deck the halls with LED lights. LED Christmas lights use 90% less electricity than regular Christmas lights, and you can purchase them for about $10 a strand.
Lower the thermostat when the party starts. While hosting guests, turn down the heat, since holiday cooking and having a few extra warm bodies automatically raises the temperature in your home.
Bake several dishes at once. Cooking a ton this season? Take advantage of the energy going into warming your oven by baking as many dishes at once as possible.
No peeking! While you’re cooking many dishes, a great way to save energy is by not opening the oven door to check on your food. Don’t let the heat escape the oven!
Don’t forget your microwave. This appliance not only cooks quickly, but it also uses about 50% less energy than the conventional oven, so utilize it when you can.
Use smart power strips. After you’re done watching your favorite holiday movies, your television is still using energy in standby mode. Plug your electronics into a smart power strip.
Fill it full. Hosting the holidays usually means loads of dishes. Be sure your dishwasher is fully loaded before running it.
Use your fans. Hot air rises, so switch ceiling fans to reverse, so the blades push hot air down where it’s needed.
Wash in cold water. If your holiday guests stay the night, you can save a little energy by washing the linens in cold water.