Save Energy (and Money) with These Must-Have Home Gadgets
You’re not alone and fortunately, technology is on your side. There are lots of smart, low-effort devices available that can assist you in cutting down on energy use without compromising comfort or convenience. If you’re open to making your home a little more efficient (and a little more smart), here are some must-have devices that can help you conserve energy and money without needing to lift much more than a finger.
Smart Thermostat
A total game-changer. A smart thermostat learns your schedule and optimizes your heating and cooling to consume less energy when you don’t require it such as when you’re asleep or away.
Try this: Google Nest or Eco bee they’re easy to use and work with your phone or voice assistant.
Savings: Up to 15% on your energy bill, without even considering it.
Smart Plugs
Ever forget to turn off a fan or heater for a whole day? Smart plugs let you turn appliances on/off with your phone even schedule them. Some provide a readout of how much energy each device is using.
Try this: Plug in your space heater, lamp, or coffee maker for extra control and less waste.
Savings: It’s the little changes that add up especially for energy-hogging devices.
LED Bulbs
Still using traditional bulbs? Time to switch. LED bulbs use about 75% less energy and last way longer.
Try this: Use warm white for a cozy feel or smart LED bulbs to dim or schedule lights from your phone.
Savings: Lower electric bill + fewer store runs for replacements.
Motion Sensor Lights
Lights that switch off when no one’s around simple, genius, and perfect for hallways, bathrooms, closets, and porches.
Do this: Battery-powered versions are a cinch to install and great for renters too.
Savings: No lights being left on all night by accident.
Energy Monitor
Want to know exactly what’s sucking the most power in your home? Whole-house or plug-in energy monitors show you where your energy (and money) is going.
Do this: Sense or Emporia home monitors can give you insight and help you spot “energy vampires.”
Savings: Allows you to make smarter choices and unplug whatever you’re not using.
Smart Ceiling Fans
These keep your room warm without cranking the AC. Smart fans can adjust based on temperature or time of day and some even reverse for winter.
Do this: Combine with a smart thermostat for the ultimate energy-saving duo.
Savings: Use less AC in the summer and less heat in the winter.
Solar-Powered Gadgets
Solar tech is getting better and cheaper, from phone chargers to garden lights. A simple solution to take a little pressure off your grid usage.
Try it: Solar phone chargers or string lights to start no plugs required.
Savings: Free energy from the sun? Yes, please.
Final Thoughts
Energy conservation doesn’t have to be rocket science. With a few smart substitutions, your house can be simpler to operate, more comfortable and far less expensive in the long run. Start with a single device, try it out and let your home (and bank account) thank you.