If you’re waiting until the last minute to put up your Christmas lights, Xcel Energy says consider new L-E-D technology. The utility’s Matt Lindstrom says, “Depending on the type of LEDs and the number and the time you use them, you can see savings anywhere from one dollar to more than 80 dollars a month, based on current electric rates.” L-E-D Christmas lights also help the environment by reducing demand for electricity.
When putting up Christmas lights, be sure to follow basic safety precautions. Lindstrom says for outdoor installations on your house or trees, “make sure to locate any overhead power lines and then, once you locate those, keep your ladders and extension poles more than ten feet away — and never toss lights near or across an overhead power line.” Lindstrom says whether indoor or outdoor, use only U-L approved strings and replace any that are worn or frayed. Don’t plug too many light strings into one outlet. Keep lights away from combustible materials — and don’t put them on metal railings or bannisters which can become energized if insulation on the wires is damaged.
Here’s the interview: