Smart technologies make our homes more comfortable, convenient, and energy-efficient. By connecting your home Wi-Fi network, smart devices automate everyday tasks like lighting, heating, cooling, and home security—they can even communicate with other smart devices in the home.
While not all smart home products are specifically designed with energy savings in mind, there are several smart technologies that can help you lower home energy use. Here are three smart home devices to help you save.
Smart Thermostats
Smart or not, your thermostat is the most effective tool for controlling energy use, as heating and cooling typically account for the largest portion of energy bills. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust the indoor temperature through an app, giving you full control from anywhere on the go. Many smart thermostats include learning capabilities and will adjust the thermostat based on previous behavior and patterns.
According to the Department of Energy, smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling bills by more than 8% annually, and with models as low as $65, they typically pay for themselves in one year.
If you already own a smart thermostat, you may be eligible to participate in CCEC’s Connect to Save program. By enrolling, you permit CCEC to make minor adjustments to your thermostat during peak energy periods. This initiative aims to reduce demand and improve system reliability, potentially lowering power costs for the cooperative and its members. Participants receive a $50 gift card for enrolling and an additional $50 for each year of participation. More information is available at connecttosavenc.com.
Smart Lighting
Smart LED bulbs use less electricity than traditional bulbs and can be scheduled or turned off (or on) remotely through a smartphone app. Smart bulbs are available in a range of shapes, brightness levels, colors and more, so shop for the products that work best for your home lighting needs.
Many smart bulbs include motion sensors that turn on or off based on room activity, further optimizing home energy use. If you’re new to smart lighting, try a home starter kit. Prices for kits range from $70 to $300+, depending on how many bulbs you need.
Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are inexpensive gadgets that can help you save energy. Many electronic devices consume power even when they are turned off (known as “phantom load”), which can take a toll on your energy bills. Smart plugs are simply plugged into an electrical outlet and connected to your Wi-Fi network. When set up, the smart plug can cut power or return power to non-smart devices, like coffee makers, phone chargers and other items that draw phantom load.
Many smart plugs can be paired with popular smart hubs, like Alexa or Google Nest, or controlled through the plug’s associated app. Smart plugs are simple to use and a set of four can be purchased for as little as $25.