The Power Behind the Pumpkin
By McKayla Kiernan, Communications Specialist
Each October, neighborhoods across our service territory come alive with glowing pumpkins, flickering porch lights and spooky yard displays. From small strings of orange bulbs to towering inflatables, these decorations bring joy to visitors of all ages — and all of it runs on the safe, reliable electricity that powers our community year-round.
Many don’t realize the level of energy required to bring these seasonal displays to life. Inflatables are kept upright by continuously running fans, typically drawing about 120-145 watts each.1 LED light strings consume relatively little electricity — around 5 watts for a 100-count strand — while older incandescent versions can use 20-40 watts for the same length.2 Fog machines are among the highest energy users, requiring 400-700 watts to power their heating elements3 — often drawing more power in two hours than a set of decorative lights will in an entire evening.
For perspective, one large inflatable vampire uses about 0.84 kWh over six hours, which is roughly the same amount of energy a standard refrigerator consumes in about five hours4. Multiply that by multiple inflatables and weeks of display time, and the numbers begin to add up — though the total cost is still lower than many expect.
At our current residential rate of $0.09897/kWh (lower than the national average), an elaborate display typically costs less than $10 to operate throughout October. However, homeowners can reduce costs further and improve safety by following these tips:
•Choose LED lighting over incandescent — LEDs last longer and use significantly less energy
•Use timers — program displays to turn off automatically later in
the evening
•Group items on a power
strip — simplifies control
and reduces standby power draw
•Inspect cords and plugs —replace any damaged components to prevent hazards
Beyond the numbers, it’s worth remembering that safety plays just as big a role as energy efficiency. Extension cords should be rated for outdoor use, and connections should be kept off the ground to avoid water damage. Always follow manufacturer instructions for spacing around lights, fog machines and inflatables to prevent overheating or fire hazards. A well-planned setup not only protects your home and visitors but also ensures your decorations last for many seasons to come.
This Halloween, whether you opt for an elaborate display or a simple porch light to welcome visitors, remember that safe, reliable electricity is at the heart of every celebration. Your cooperative is proud to power the traditions that bring our community together.
1 EcoEnergyGeek, n.d.
2 U.S. Department of Energy, 2023
3 ProSoundWeb, 2019
4 EcoEnergyGeek, n.d.; EnergySage, 2024