Christmas is synonymous with lights and decorations, bringing joy and brightness to the darkest time of the year. However, with the current cost of living crisis, many are worried about the extra expenses that come with festive lighting. But fear not, as the reality might be brighter than you think!
LED Lights: The Economical Choice
Modern Christmas lights, predominantly LED-based, are surprisingly energy-efficient. Unlike traditional filament bulbs, these lights consume minimal electricity. The result? You can enjoy a sparkling home throughout December without a significant impact on your wallet.
Calculating Your Costs
To demystify the cost of running Christmas lights, Festive Lights offers a handy Christmas Lights Energy Calculator. With the current energy price cap at 27p per kWh (valid until 31 December 2023), you can easily estimate the cost by inputting your lights’ wattage and average daily usage.
For example, five meters of LED outdoor lights with a 0.68W output will cost just 3p for the entire month. Even with higher wattage lights (3.5W), you’re looking at only 17p per month.
Watch Out for Older Lights
If you’re still using older filament bulb lights, your costs will be higher. Remember, the more you use them, especially during daylight or when asleep, the higher your bill.
Future Price Changes
Post-2023, the energy price cap will increase to 29p per kWh. While this will affect costs from January 2024, LED lights remain an economical option.
Our Top Picks for Cost-Effective Festive Lighting
1. LED Cluster Lights – Cost: 21p/month
- Product: ConnectGo Outdoor LED Cluster Lights (£34.99)
- Features: Durable, warm white LEDs perfect for outdoor decoration. Extendable length and minimal cost of 21p for December.
2. LED Tree Lights – Cost: 18p/month
- Product: Osby Star LED Tree Topper & Micro Christmas Tree Lights (£22.50)
- Features: 255 warm white LEDs with a star topper. Easy to set up, blending seamlessly into your tree, and only 18p for the month’s use.
3. Reindeer and Sleigh Silhouette – Cost: 30p/month
- Product: Reindeer & Sleigh Christmas Light Silhouette (£59.99)
- Features: 360 bright white LEDs, weatherproof, with a six-hour timer. Only 1p a day for a stunning front lawn display.
4. Outdoor LED Fairy Lights – Cost: 3p/month
- Product: ConnectGo 5m Outdoor LED Fairy Lights (£11.99)
- Features: Versatile indoor/outdoor use, low-voltage with multiple power options. Incredibly economical at just 3p for the entire month.
5. USB Solar Lights – Cost: Free
- Product: Lumify Warm White USB Solar Christmas Lights (£59.99)
- Features: Solar-powered with a USB charging option. Perfect for open spaces, completely cost-free in operation.
A Bright, Budget-Friendly Christmas
With these options, you can illuminate your home this Christmas without the worry of high electricity bills. Embrace the festive spirit with lights that are not only beautiful but also kind to your wallet!