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Save your energy for what matters most
12/03/2024
The holidays in New Orleans are truly magical—String lights shimmer in the oaks, homes glow with festive decor and the scent of warm gumbo fills the air. However, keeping the lights on and the house cozy can quickly add up in energy costs. Here’s how to enjoy the holiday season while keeping your energy usage in check, which can help lower your utility bill.
- Be smart about holiday lighting. New Orleans is known for its vibrant holiday displays, but you don’t have to dim your festive spirit to save energy:
- Switch to LED lights: They use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
- Use timers: Set your lights to turn on at dusk and off before bed to avoid running them all night.
- Unplug when not home: Ensure holiday lights and decorations are unplugged when you’re not around.
- Efficiently heat your home. While winters in New Orleans are mild, occasional cold snaps can lead to higher heating bills. Stay warm without wasting energy:
- Seal drafts and air leaks: Use weatherstripping around doors and windows to keep warm air in and cold air out.
- Use ceiling fans: Set them to rotate clockwise at a low speed to push warm air back down into the room.
- Skip turning up the heat during gatherings: More people mean less heating is needed. The added body heat from guests often keeps the space warm enough.
- Cook smart in the kitchen. Holiday feasts are a staple, but ovens and stovetops can drive up energy usage. Cook efficiently with these tips:
- Cook multiple dishes at once: Use the same temperature, and keep the oven door closed.
- Keep lids on pots and pans: Covering your cookware helps cook food faster and saves energy.
- Use microwaves: Microwaves use less energy than ovens, making them ideal for reheating or cooking small portions.
Every kilowatt-hour you save during the holidays is money you can put toward what truly matters—whether it’s a special gift for a loved one, a donation to a favorite cause, or creating memories with family and friends. By making small adjustments, you can enjoy a season that’s both joyful and budget-friendly.
Want to learn about how you can save energy around your home? Schedule a free home energy assessment with an Energy Smart energy advisor.
Call 504-229-6868 or Sign up online
