The television reigns supreme as the most utilized electrical appliance in households on Christmas Day, surpassing even kitchen staples like the oven, kettle, and dishwasher. A recent survey of 2,000 homeowners who celebrate Christmas revealed that the average television viewing time on December 25th clocks in at five hours and 41 minutes, significantly outstripping the oven’s usage of three hours and 30 minutes. This dominance underscores the central role of television in modern Christmas celebrations, serving as a focal point for family gatherings and entertainment throughout the day. While the kitchen remains a hub of activity, the living room, with its flickering screen, emerges as the true heart of the home on Christmas Day.
The survey, commissioned by British Gas, highlights the pervasive presence of electrical devices in the festive landscape. On average, seven electrical appliances hum with activity throughout Christmas Day. The television, as affirmed by 74% of respondents, secures its position as the top appliance, followed closely by the kettle (62%) and oven (61%). The period between 11 am and 1 pm witnesses the peak of electrical activity, a time when families gather for festive meals and entertainment. This surge in usage underscores the importance of these appliances in facilitating traditional Christmas activities, from preparing elaborate feasts to enjoying shared viewing experiences. The data also reveals an interesting shift in energy consumption patterns, with 26% of respondents reporting that Christmas Day is the only day their energy usage peaks at lunchtime rather than in the evening, a testament to the unique demands of this special occasion.
The research delves further into the nuances of festive energy consumption, noting that decorative tree lights are typically illuminated for an average of five hours and 19 minutes per day throughout December. This festive illumination contributes significantly to the overall increase in electricity usage during the month, alongside increased television viewing (42%) and the widespread use of other decorative lighting (55%). The shorter daylight hours during December (58%), pre-Christmas cooking preparations (34%), and the presence of children home from school (18%) are also cited as contributing factors to the elevated energy consumption. These insights paint a comprehensive picture of how Christmas traditions impact household energy usage, highlighting the interplay between festive practices and resource consumption.
In response to the increased energy demands of the holiday season, many households are adopting energy-saving measures. 32% of respondents reported using LED decorations, known for their energy efficiency, while 22% have embraced the air fryer as a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional ovens. Furthermore, 22% utilize timer switches for festive lights and décor, ensuring they are not continuously in use and thereby minimizing energy waste. These conscious efforts to curtail energy consumption demonstrate a growing awareness of the environmental impact of holiday celebrations and a willingness to adopt sustainable practices.
British Gas, recognizing the heightened energy usage during the Christmas period, has launched a PeakSave scheme, offering customers half-price electricity between 11 am and 4 pm on December 25th and 26th. This initiative aims to incentivize off-peak energy consumption, aligning with periods of higher renewable energy availability in the UK’s energy system. By rewarding customers for shifting their energy usage, British Gas promotes a more balanced and sustainable approach to energy consumption, contributing to a greener Christmas celebration.
The survey sheds light on the intricate relationship between tradition, technology, and energy consumption during the Christmas season. From the ubiquitous television to the twinkling lights adorning homes, electrical appliances play a pivotal role in shaping the modern Christmas experience. While the festivities undeniably contribute to a surge in energy demand, the increasing adoption of energy-saving measures and initiatives like the British Gas PeakSave scheme signal a positive shift towards more sustainable celebrations. This evolving landscape suggests a future where festive cheer can coexist with responsible energy consumption, ensuring a brighter and greener Christmas for generations to come.
