MINNEAPOLIS (WJON News) -- Lighting up your house for Christmas doesn't have to mean a massive electric bill. Xcel Energy has some tips for how to save money and energy while you adorn your home.

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Xcel says one of the best ways to save money and energy usage is by using LED lights. On average, customers who use a strand of 100 LED mini-lights for five hours a day will save about 70 cents a month per strand, when compared to a strand of incandescent bulbs. 

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PHOTO: courtesy of Xcel Energy
PHOTO: courtesy of Xcel Energy
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Each strand of 25 LED standard C7 lights used for five hours will save about $2.75 per month, while each strand of 25 LED standard C9 lights can save about $3.85 a month.  Other energy-saving and safety tips from Xcel Energy include:

  • Use only Underwriters Laboratories-approved lights and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Keep holiday lights, ladders, and extension poles more than 10 feet away from any overhead power lines.
  • Check the cords, socket connections, and plugs on strings of lights. If these are worn or damaged, replace the lights.
  • Plug-in lights before stringing them to determine whether any bulbs are burned out.
  • Unplug lights before hanging them as well as when asleep or away from home.
  • Avoid attaching too many light strings together and plugging them into one outlet.
  • Keep lights away from combustible materials, including draperies.
  • Keep lights away from metal railings and banisters, aluminum siding, and metallic trees. These materials can become energized if a short circuit occurs.
  • Make sure rooftop decorations don't block vents or vent pipes.

Use this link to more money and energy-saving tips from Xcel Energy.

Christmas lights on Christmas tree, decorative garland in dark space
ANGHI
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