Keep Shining On

The lights and yard displays that go up this time of the year brighten up the season for me, especially when it snows and the whole world takes on a bit of a glow. That brilliant holiday sparkle can be made by more efficient lights these days, using LED strings.

Day 2: Oh Christmas Lights

Choose LEDs (light-emitting diodes) instead of incandescent bulbs to decorate your home, inside and out. They're a bit more expensive, but last much longer and use 80% to 90% less power than conventional mini bulbs. Saving on energy consumption also means you save on maintenance, with LED strands lasting up to ten times longer than conventional stings. This is also because LEDs do not produce heat, so they won't singe fingers — or the tree. They are safer overall than incandescent bulbs.

LED strands come in a bright white, as well as many color choices, color changing bulbs, and color combinations. Some local organizations have sponsored programs in past years to accept old strings of lights and help you update to LED strings. Take advantage of these opportunities when they are available in your neighborhood. If you invest in new lights to adorn your eaves this year, I recommend spending the additional money on LED strands and we will all save in the long-run.