Technology improvements over the years have improved the efficiency of decorations, helping to keep energy use down during this much-anticipated season. Miniature holiday lights, for example, have replaced larger bulbs in most decorations. Commonly sold in 50 or 100 light strings, they use only half-a-watt per bulb and stay much cooler than the old fashioned night-light-type bulbs.

For even greater savings, the latest trend in holiday lighting is decorations that use Light Emitting Diodes instead of bulbs. Though they tend to cost more up front than traditional light sets, LED’s use 90 percent less energy, are more durable and can last years longer. Operating ten strings of mini-LED lights compared to ten strings of standard mini-lights can save nearly $12 in energy costs in one month. For an LED savings chart, visit the energy efficiency section at www.nstar.com.

Just how much a holiday display will increase an average electric bill varies by the number of lights used and how long they’re on. A good way to keep bills down without sacrificing the spirit of the season is to use timers to control when the lights go on and off. Making sure decorations are off before leaving home or going to bed is safe and efficient.

When decorating, it’s also important to keep the following basic safety tips in mind:

• Be sure that electrical circuits and extension cords are properly rated and not overloaded.
• Use only lights and electric decorations that carry the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) safety label.
• Before reusing last year’s lights, inspect them for damage to wires or sockets.
• Always unplug a light string or decoration before replacing fuses or bulbs.
• To avoid overheating or damage, never run electrical cords under rugs.
• Be sure to look for overhead power lines before raising or climbing a ladder outdoors.
• Use only outdoor-approved lighting and extension cords when decorating outdoors.
• Plug outdoor lights and decorations into outlets protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters.