In addition to the tips below, visit myEnergy Marketplace for additional information on what to look for in LED lights, Smart Power Bars, Plugs and Devices, as well as rebates.

Holiday lighting

Why LEDs are the brighter choice.


A mom and a son looking at a string of Christmas lights up close


'Tis the season to hang the lights – and there's an incredible variety to choose from. But there's no question that light emitting diode or LED lights are one of the most energy-efficient ways to brighten the holidays. LEDs provide a higher lumen rating, or brightness, for the same wattage. LEDs are considerably more efficient than their incandescent counterparts because they give off less heat and waste less energy. Swapping your incandescents for higher-cost LEDs may seem like a frill, but it's actually an investment that will help you save energy.  

5 reasons to choose LEDs lights

three light bulbs on a string of Christmas lights

1. Less energy wasted


LED holiday lights use about 75% less electricity, on average, than conventional incandescent light strings. Always look for the ENERGY STAR certification.

a lit up light bulb shining

2. Bright but efficient


The higher the lumens, the brighter the light. Cool white LEDs can produce 60 to 92 lumens per watt, while incandescents produce much less light, about 10 to 18 lumens per watt.

a wrapped present

3. Save on energy, stay on budget


Investing in LED lights means your holiday light show will require less electricity, so you can roll the savings into gift giving.

two pine trees with snow falling icon

4. More time to play in the snow


ENERGY STAR certified LED lights last up to 10 times longer than incandescent lights, meaning you won’t need to replace bulbs as often.

an icon of a family of three - a mom, dad, and a child, with a heart

5. Keep loved ones safe


LED lights stay cool, while CFLs and incandescents emit 80 to 90 per cent of their energy as heat. Choose LEDs to reduce the risk of sparking a fire. And always use a GFCI outlet.

Want to know more? Visit the ENERGY STAR® product finder tool.

an icon of a user and a light bulb representing an idea

Did you know?

Electric holiday lighting was first used in a Manhattan apartment during the Christmas of 1882.


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