04 Nov 2025 Let’s talk turkey

Posted at 9:41 AMh in Food & Home Entertaining by

By Beth Jimmerson

The holidays are a season of warmth, food, and family – but they can also be a season of higher utility bills and wasted energy. From extra guests to nonstop cooking and twinkling lights, your home is working overtime. The good news? With a little planning, you can celebrate in style while being energy-smart. 

COOK SMARTER NOT HARDER

Holiday meals mean crowded kitchens and running appliances all day. Try these tips:

• Use the oven efficiently. Bake multiple dishes at once rather than heating the oven for each item.

• Resist the peek. Every time you open the oven door, the temperature can drop 25–30 degrees. Use the oven light instead.

• Small appliances equal big savings. Slow cookers, air fryers and microwaves use far less energy than an oven or stovetop burner.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HEAT

A full house means extra body heat – take advantage!

• Turn down the thermostat. Lowering it a few degrees when guests arrive keeps everyone comfortable and saves energy.

• Reverse ceiling fans. Set fans to spin clockwise at a low speed to gently circulate warm air without cranking up the heat.

• Seal the leaks. Cold drafts at doors and windows make your system work harder. A quick weatherstrip or door snake can help.

LIGHT UP EFFICIENTLY

Holiday lights create magic, but they don’t have to drain your wallet.

• Switch to LEDs. They use up to 80 percent less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer.

• Put lights on a timer. Enjoy the sparkle during peak hours but set them to shut off automatically late at night.

• Be strategic. A few well-placed strands can create a big effect without covering every inch of your home.

BE SMART WITH HOT WATER

Extra guests mean extra showers, dishes and laundry.

• Lower your water heater to 120°F. That’s hot enough for comfort but saves energy compared to higher settings.

• Run full loads. Dishwashers and washing machines are most efficient when fully loaded.

• Use cold water for laundry. Clothes get clean while saving energy and preserving fabrics.

PLAN FOR ELECTRONICS AND GUESTS

From football games to kids’ tablets, electronics add up.

• Power strips are your friend. Plug TVs, chargers and gaming consoles into a strip and switch it off when not in use.

• Remind guests to unplug. Many chargers still draw power even when devices are disconnected.

• Worried about your internet? You can upgrade your speed directly from the myConwayCorp app at any time. This ensures that you have enough bandwidth for your guests and their devices. 

ADD A DASH OF SUSTAINABILITY

A little creativity makes the season brighter without excess energy use.

• Decorate naturally. Pinecones, evergreen branches and candles create a festive atmosphere without relying on power.

• Cook in batches ahead. Prepping and freezing side dishes reduces oven time during the big day.

• Give energy-smart gifts. LED candles, rechargeable batteries or even a cozy blanket encourage conservation year-round.

Thanksgiving and Christmas are about connection, not consumption. By making energy-smart choices, you’ll enjoy the season’s warmth, keep your bills in check and give your family the gift of sustainability. This year, host with heart and efficiency – because the best holiday memories don’t come with a bigger energy bill.

Looking for more ways to save? Visit ConwayCorp.com/EnergySmart and learn about our free energy audits, zero percent interest loan program and more.

Beth Jimmerson
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