Happy Holidays! My name is Elfie and in the North Pole, I see both naughty and nice elves. Most of the nice elves tend to be energy “elf-icient” – including me.
This holiday season along with my friends, as part of my elf duties, Santa sent me to San Diego to share some tips for achieving “elf-iciency” this holiday season. When you use energy matters and using less energy from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. is not only good for the environment, but also for your budget. Below I have put together a list of 12 savings tips that will help you save by being green. Save money and the planet by becoming more elf-icient!.
Learn more winter tips at sdge.com/myenergy.
1. “Rebates are back at sdge.com/rebates. There are great new smart thermostats to choose from.”
2. “Give your dishwasher a break and let your dishes air dry.”
3. “Deck the halls with LEDs - think Luminous Efficiency Delights.”
4. “’Tis the season for parties. Energy-efficient weatherproofing helps save you money. Protect and insulate your home with quality weather stripping products and throw a weather stripping party to keep your home warm and cozy!”
5. “Don’t want to see your money go down the drain? Save money and only do the laundry when you have full loads.”
6. “Don’t overheat. Keep your water heater at 120°F.”
7. “One of the worst things you can do this holiday season is to cause Santa to have a sneezing fit when he stops to drop off gifts under the tree ‘cause your air filter is filthy. Fresh filters are a gift that keeps on giving all year-long.”
8. “Need a last-minute holiday gift idea? Forget about socks or ties. Get the fam a smart power strip to plug in all the shiny new toys that Santa is sure to bring (Nintendo Switch anyone?) – this will help cut down on phantom energy.”
9. “Nothing says Christmas like a cozy fireplace with stockings hanging over the mantel. Dampers prevent the heated indoor air from escaping through the chimney. When your fireplace is not in use, be sure to put the damper on to keep out cold drafts.”
10. “Sometimes we all (...elves included) need to vent, especially during the holidays. But when it comes to our bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, make sure to vent only as needed.”
11. “I bet some of you are going away for the holidays. Control your outdoor lights with a timer, motion sensor, or dusk-to- dawn sensors so they are on only when needed.”
12. “When goodies are baking, it’s hard to resist the urge to open the oven to check and sample what’s inside. But please don’t! Every time you do, the oven temperature drops, and more energy is used. Good things (including reduced energy costs) come to those who wait!”