Martin Lewis, the founder of Money Saving Expert, has cautioned UK households about the energy costs of their Christmas lights and shared practical tips for keeping expenses low.
As families across the country decorate their homes for the festive season, the financial guru explained how to calculate the cost of keeping the lights on throughout December.
In his latest newsletter, Martin provided a straightforward “rule of thumb” to estimate energy usage. He highlighted that modern LED Christmas lights are significantly cheaper to run than older incandescent bulbs.
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“If you’ve got LED lights, it costs (a lot) less than 1p every hour—about 1p every 12 hours—for every 100 bulbs you use,” the newsletter states. By contrast, incandescent lights cost 1p per hour or 12p for 12 hours per 100 bulbs.
How much will Christmas Lights cost me?
- Running a 100-bulb string of LED lights for six hours a day over a month costs approximately 15p.
- Running the same number of incandescent bulbs under the same conditions costs £1.80.
How to calculate energy costs for Christmas lights
Martin also shared a formula to calculate the energy cost of Christmas lights for those using larger or more elaborate displays:
- Check the wattage of your lights.
2. Multiply the wattage by 24.5p (the current average price cap rate for electricity).
3. Multiply that result by the number of hours you plan to use them.
4. Divide by 1,000 to convert watts to kilowatts.
Martin Lewis emphasised that larger light displays with higher wattage would naturally use more energy and cost more. Understanding this is key to making informed decisions about festive decorations.
Martin Lewis tips on Identifying LED vs incandescent lights
To help consumers identify their light type, the newsletter explained the differences:
Incandescent lights: Made of glass, often get hot after being switched on for a while, and have a visible filament inside.
LED lights: Typically made of plastic and stay cool to the touch even after hours of use.
Martin advised that incandescent lights, while nostalgic, are less energy-efficient and may pose fire risks if left unattended or on for extended periods. Replacing them with LED options, though initially more expensive, will save households money over time due to lower energy consumption.
Practical safety and cost-saving tips
Martin urged households using older lights to minimise their usage and prioritise safety:
- Avoid leaving incandescent lights unattended or switched on for long periods.
- Consider switching to LED lights for both energy savings and safety.
- Factor in the cost of replacing incandescent lights with LEDs when assessing holiday budgets.
As energy costs remain a concern for many households, these insights are a timely reminder to balance festive cheer with financial mindfulness.
Other Ways to Save Costs This Christmas
With the cost of living crisis continuing to strain UK households, finding creative ways to save money this festive season is essential. Rising energy bills, food prices, and overall inflation have made budgeting a top priority for many families. Here are some practical tips to help ease the financial burden while still enjoying the holiday spirit:
Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas
Consider homemade gifts or thoughtful gestures like baking treats, crafting ornaments, or creating personalised photo albums. These not only save money but also add a heartfelt touch to your presents. For store-bought gifts, take advantage of sales and discount codes, or explore second-hand shops for unique finds.
Cut Back on Energy Costs
Aside from switching to LED lights, minimise energy usage by turning off unused appliances and lowering your thermostat. According to energy experts, reducing your home’s temperature by just one degree could save up to £145 annually.
Plan Ahead for Meals
Christmas dinner can be expensive, but with careful planning, costs can be trimmed. Opt for supermarket own-brand products, which are often comparable in quality to big-name brands but significantly cheaper. Reducing waste by using leftovers for soups, pies, or sandwiches can also stretch your budget further.
Free or Low-Cost Festivities
Enjoy the season without overspending by exploring free local events such as Christmas markets, carol concerts, or light displays. Many towns and cities host community events that provide festive cheer without impacting your wallet.
Spread the Cost
If you haven’t already planned, consider using budgeting apps or creating a simple spreadsheet to monitor holiday expenses. Spreading the cost over several months, rather than a single high-spend period, can ease financial pressure.
Shop Smart
Start holiday shopping earlier to avoid last-minute price hikes. Use cashback websites or loyalty card rewards to offset some of the costs. Additionally, bulk-buying staples like wrapping paper and decorations in post-Christmas sales can set you up for next year.
The cost of living crisis has reminded many families to focus on meaningful celebrations rather than extravagant expenses. By using these strategies, households can keep the festive spirit alive while staying financially mindful.
