If you are like most college students, you will want to start decorating for Christmas as soon as return from Thanksgiving Break.

Traditional holiday decorations include wreaths, stockings and, of course, a Christmas tree, but one decoration seems to be essential during this season: Christmas lights. Whether you are stringing them on a tree in the living room of your apartment or lining every wall and window with them in your dorm room, Christmas lights are must have during these last few weeks of the semester.

But despite the cheer they seem to spread as the weather gets colder, Christmas lights consume a lot of energy. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the amount of energy used by this decoration.

1.) Use LED holiday lights instead of incandescent ones, which can use up to 99 percent more energy. They also last longer and do not get overheated. These energy-saving lights can be purchased for around $12.

2.) While it’s tempting to keep Christmas lights on when you have left the house or are sleeping, it’s not necessary and wastes energy. It is recommended that you keep them on for no more than five to six hours a day.

3.) If you like to fall asleep to the glow of Christmas lights, try using an automatic timer. While these are a bit more expensive, sold for around $30, they can be used year after year.

4.) Instead of wrapping your tree with Christmas lights, try stringing popcorn. Of course, this idea will not sound appealing to many, but it’s inexpensive and uses no energy at all.

If you live in an apartment, there are ways to protect your place from the cold weather (and your bank account from a high energy bill!).

1.) Check your window and door frames for any cracks or holes. Caulk any you find to keep the cold out so you are not paying for more heat than you need.

2.) Get a humidifier. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which makes a room feel warmer than it really is.

3.) Bundle up. Wear thick socks or slippers and a sweater while at home so you can turn down your thermostat and not pay as much heat.

4.) When baking Christmas cookies, use your oven light to check on the progress instead of opening the oven door. This will require less heat to keep the oven hot and less energy that you are paying for.

Whether you are decorating, baking or just trying to stay warm, it is easy to use a lot of energy during the Christmas season, but it’s just as easy to save a little here and there. Utilize some of these tips to have yourself a green Christmas.