Holiday cooking, decorating and hosting mean using more electricity usage in November and December. A few easy habits can help keep energy use in check while you enjoy the season.

Cook smart. Use lids and match pot size to the burner. Use residual oven heat by turning it off a few minutes before a dish is done. Cook multiple dishes together when possible. A slow cooker or pressure cooker is great for sides and keeps the oven free for the turkey.

Manage refrigeration. Do not leave the door open while you hunt for items. Chill drinks in a cooler so guests do not crowd the fridge. If you will have a lot of extra food, organize a staging area so people can find what they need quickly.

Decorate efficiently. Replace old string lights with LEDs and put them on timers or smart plugs. Use indoor timers so lights turn off at bedtime. Consider battery-operated candles for mantel displays.

Control heat. When cooking fills the kitchen with warmth, lower the thermostat a few degrees. Close off unused rooms and focus heat where guests gather. Encourage layering and cozy throws rather than higher thermostat settings.

Unplug. Unused chargers and appliances still draw power when plugged in. If you stream music or video, pause or stop devices when not in use.

Fill up. Run the dishwasher and washing machine only with full loads and use eco or air-dry cycles if your appliances have them.