As you pull out the decorations and start decking the halls, it's the perfect time to think about making your holiday season not just merry and bright – but also safe and energy-efficient.
Light Up the Holidays with LEDs
Twinkling lights are a holiday must-have, but traditional incandescent bulbs can be a drain on both your wallet and your safety. This year, consider switching to energy-efficient LED lights. Not only are they more affordable than ever, but they also come in a wide variety of colors and styles to match any festive vibe.
Here’s why LEDs are a holiday win:
Longer lifespan – You’ll be using them for many seasons to come.
Cooler to the touch – They stay much cooler than traditional lights, lowering the risk of fire.
Energy savings – You’ll see the difference on your electric bill.
Want proof? Our energy experts crunched the numbers. Lighting a 6-foot tree for six hours a day for a month with traditional mini lights costs about $7.86. With LED mini lights, the cost is about $1.80.
Curious how much you could save? Try our holiday lighting calculator to find out!
Safety Tips Worth Celebrating
While the sparkle of the season is all around us, don’t forget: safety is the best gift you can give your loved ones. Here are a few smart reminders to keep your home safe and cozy:
Inspect your lights and cords. Toss any that are broken or have frayed wires.
Stay clear of power lines. Never hang lights near them and always check overhead before using a ladder.
Use ladders safely. Make sure they’re on solid, level ground before climbing.
Mind the cords. Don’t run them under rugs, across doorways or around sharp corners.
Don’t overload outlets. Plug wisely and avoid using indoor lights outdoors.
Turn off lights before bed or when you leave. Or better yet, use a timer so they turn off automatically.
Look for the UL label. Lights tested by trusted labs like Underwriter’s Laboratory meet safety standards.
Water your real tree. A dry tree is a serious fire hazard—keep it hydrated.
Whether you’re lighting up your home inside or out, a little planning goes a long way toward making your holidays bright, safe and energy-smart.
All of us at Tampa Electric wish you a joyful holiday season!
