This blog post was accurate at the time of publishing. However, programs, policies and rebates may have changed since then. We recommend checking our website or contacting us directly for the most current information on 1300 430 917.
The Christmas period is one of the most joyful and energy-intensive times of the year. Between hosting family gatherings, running air-conditioning in the summer heat, cooking feasts and powering festive lights, household electricity consumption can spike significantly. With energy prices remaining a major concern for Australian households, understanding and managing your usage during the holiday season is more important than ever.
In this guide, we break down why Christmas energy usage increases, what appliances draw the most power and how you can keep your bills under control without compromising the festive spirit.
Why Energy Usage Increases at Christmas
1. More people at home
School holidays, visitors and end-of-year gatherings mean the home is busier than usual. More showers, more meals, more cooling and more devices running all lead to higher consumption. Laundry also increases as households manage extra bedding, towels and clothing.
2. A busier kitchen
December is the peak season for cooking. Ovens and stoves often operate for long stretches to handle roasts, baking and large meal preparation. Fridges and freezers work overtime storing extra food while frequent door opening forces them to cycle more often. Dishwashers typically run multiple loads a day as entertaining picks up. All these factors make the kitchen one of the biggest contributors to holiday energy use.
3. Festive lighting and decorations
Christmas lights create magic in the home but they also add steady background energy usage. Older incandescent or non-LED lights use considerably more power. Individually they may seem minor, however across the month the combined effect can become noticeable on the bill.
4. Summer heat
For most of Australia, the December heat places significant pressure on cooling systems. Air conditioning often runs longer and harder to keep indoor spaces comfortable during gatherings. Since cooling can account for up to 40 percent of a summer electricity bill, even small efficiency improvements can make a meaningful difference.
How to Reduce Energy Usage This Christmas
1. Switch to LED Christmas lights
• LED lights use significantly less energy than older styles and remain cool which makes them safer around children and decorations. They offer the same sparkle with a fraction of the cost.
2. Use timers for decorations
• Setting your lights on a timer ensures they turn off automatically late in the evening. This simple step saves energy every night and removes the need to remember to switch them off.
3. Keep your air conditioning working efficiently
• Set the thermostat between 24 and 26°C
• Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day
• Use ceiling or pedestal fans to support cooling and circulate air
4. Cook smarter
• Using slow cookers, air fryers or the BBQ where possible
• Avoiding frequent oven door opening which releases heat
• Preparing cold dishes to minimise cooking time and heat buildup
5. Make the most of solar
If your home has solar panels you can maximise savings by:
• Running appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines during daylight hours
• Precooling your home before guests arrive
• Charging any batteries earlier in the day
Christmas doesn’t have to come with an energy bill shock. A few smart adjustments, combined with efficient appliances and better energy habits, can help you enjoy the holiday season without overspending. By understanding how and when your home uses power, you can take control of your consumption and keep your festive celebrations bright, efficient, and affordable.
