One way of making your Christmas season greener is by using LED Christmas lights instead of conventional Christmas lights. These days most stores that sell Christmas lights include the LED variety on their shelves as well. A greener Christmas really is a possibility!

LED Christmas lights last ten times longer and consume less energy than the traditional lights. They use 75% less energy. This means you can enjoy electrical savings when you use LED lights this holiday season.

LED Christmas lights come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including the traditional globes and “minis” that are popular among traditional string lights. Additionally, icicle and net forms are both available on the market. Regardless of the color you prefer, you should be able to find them in stores.

Compared to conventional Christmas lights, the LED type are safer to use. You can, for example, safely connect several strands without worrying about overheating being an issue. That said, it’s still wise to consult the box or manual to see how many strings the manufacturer says you can safely connect.

If you want to be even greener, you can opt to use solar powered LED Christmas lights. These lights harness the sun’s energy. Some models are designed to light up at night. Amazon usually sells a strand of 50 lights for around $17. As such, you’ll save both money and energy by purchasing these LED light strands.

Occasionally people are put off by LED Christmas lights’ initial cost. Of course, there’s no denying that traditional incandescent bulbs cost less than strands of LED lights. That’s the price you sometimes pay for more efficient and greener lighting solutions.

If you can’t spend money on LED Christmas lights and still have working incandescent lights, you can buy Christmas light timers for your existing lights. Timers like these are designed to regulate the amount of energy your lights use. Additionally, these timers can help burglar-proof your house because they turn off and on automatically, thereby giving the impression that someone is at home even if you’re out of town visiting friends and family.

Regardless of whether you use incandescent or LED Christmas lights, you should observe safety protocols. By not pulling on the cord when you unplug the lights, for example, you can help prevent damage that might tear the wiring inside. Check for damage before storing any strands. Don’t use lights that have loose connections, broken sockets, or bare wires. Store Christmas Lights, and any electrical decorations, in a dry place where they can’t be damaged by water. Keep them out of children’s reach during storage, to ensure the wires are not damaged.

Christmas is a time in which we can make our planet and our future greener as we also celebrate our family and religion in this season of giving. Lots of little steps can go a long way, so don’t forget that every little bit counts.

About the author: Megan Barlow helps others learn to live more environmentally friendly lives. Find out more about sustainable living at her blog on Eco-Friendly Green Gadgets.

This article was originally posted at Get a Greener Holiday with LED Christmas Lights.