Green Team’s Suggestions for Conserving Electricity this Holiday Season:

Following are some suggestions from the Washington Township Green Team on how to minimize electricity usage while still making your Christmas joyful and bright:

Use energy-efficient lights

• Switch to LEDs: LED lights use 80-90% less electricity than incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
• Look for ENERGY STAR labels: Some efficient products are labeled with ENERGY STAR to help you optimize energy savings.
• Consider solar-powered options: Use solar-powered lights for outdoor decorations where possible to reduce energy consumption from the grid.

Control when your lights are on, there is no reason to keep them burning all night long!

• Use timers: Set automatic timers to ensure lights are only on during specific hours, like from dusk until you go to bed.
• Use smart plugs: Smart plugs offer more control and can turn lights off remotely or when you leave the house.
• Unplug them: Manually turn off lights before leaving home or going to bed if you don't have a timer or smart plug.

Decorate wisely

• Focus on key areas: Instead of covering your entire home, concentrate lights on a few focal points like the tree or front porch to create a festive look with fewer lights.
• Incorporate reflective decor: Use tinsel, metallic ornaments, mirrors, and wreaths to reflect light and make your display seem brighter.
• Use fewer lights: Choose a minimalist approach to decorating, as a tasteful display can be achieved with fewer lights.
• Turn off ambient lights: When enjoying the glow of your Christmas tree or other festive lighting indoors, turn off other room lights to create ambiance and save energy.
• Opt for non-electric decor: Balance your lighting display with decorations that require no electricity, such as wreaths, garlands, or battery-operated candles.
• Inspect and maintain lights: Before installation, check all strands for damaged wires or broken sockets. Proper maintenance ensures lights run efficiently and safely. Recycle light strands that are no longer working or wanted. Christmas lights can be recycled using the bin at West Morris Central High School.