9 Smart Home Gadgets That Decrease Your Electric Bill

Electric bills can be a pain, especially if you’re not careful about energy use. While reducing your electric bill can feel daunting, the good thing is that plenty of high-tech home gadgets can help reduce your electric bill. These gadgets can also make your life easier by helping you with simple tasks around the house.

In this post, we’ll discuss the nine best smart home gadgets that you can use to decrease your electric bill. From energy-saving light bulbs to smart thermostats, there’s something for everyone on this list. In addition, we’ve included gadgets for every budget and style, so you can find something that works for you.

Smart Thermostat

By using smart thermostats, you can control your home’s temperature from a distance or by using your voice. These devices allow you to create a temperature schedule to reduce energy usage while you’re away or use geofencing technology to adjust the temperature when you come and go. This feature can help you save money on your energy bill every month. The cost starts at around $100 and can go over $400. Installing a smart thermostat is a simple process that can be completed with a few tools and knowledge of electrical wiring. If you’re uncomfortable with the installation, it’s best to seek the help of a professional. Popular brands for smart thermostats include Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell, Lux Kono, and Sensi.

Smart Plugs

Smart plugs allow you to control your lights and appliances using your voice or phone. They provide the ability to create schedules that turn off your devices when not in use, and they function as a surge protector to prevent damage to your devices. The cost of a smart plug varies depending on the brand and features, ranging from about $10 to $40. Installing a smart plug is a straightforward process, simply plug it into an outlet and connect it to your home’s wireless network via an app. Some of the most well-known brands for smart plugs are WeMo, Samsung SmartThings, TP-Link Kasa, Belkin Wemo Insight Switch, and Eufy Smart Plug.

Smart Lighting

Smart lighting can significantly reduce energy consumption by automatically turning off lights when not in use or following a predetermined schedule. You can also remotely dim lights or create custom “scenes” in each room to set the mood with minimal energy usage. This lighting system ranges in price from $50 to $300 per lightbulb or fixture, depending on the features and brand. Installing a basic smart lighting system may involve installing compatible light switches and downloading an app to connect them to your home’s wireless network.

Smart Appliances

Switching to energy-efficient smart appliances such as refrigerators, washers and dryers, ovens and stoves, dishwashers, and microwaves can save you money on energy usage while still providing the same conveniences as traditional appliances. These appliances may offer features like remote monitoring or automatic settings based on usage patterns, such as turning off power when an item is not in use.

Replacing old appliances with energy-efficient ones typically involves unplugging the old appliances and connecting the new ones using the provided instructions from the manufacturer. If there are any concerns about safety or suitability, it is recommended that a professional electrician perform the wiring installation.

Smart Home Security

By installing a smart home security system, you can remotely monitor your home through cameras and sensors that will alert you if any suspicious activity is detected near windows, doors, and other crucial points around your house. These systems also offer access control, ensuring visitors can only enter after proper authentication, even remotely, if necessary. The price of a security system varies widely depending on the sophistication of the system, and more advanced options can cost several thousand dollars.

Setting up a complete system requires mounting sensors and cameras in appropriate locations and choosing routes for wiring. You will also need to set up an app that allows remote monitoring. Some brands that offer similar products include SimpliSafe, Ring, Abode, Kuna, Nest, Netgear, Skybell, Frontpoint, and ADT Pulse.

Smart Windows

Motorized window treatments, such as shades, shutters, and blinds, help you remotely control the amount of natural light entering your home and maintain stable temperatures according to your preferences, leading to energy savings and reduced heat loss. Some popular options for motorized window treatments include Nanolux, Celientao, Tronzo, American Blinds, Houzz, Heimtextilien, DaWanda, Yves Delorme, and RediShade.

Smart Generators

Connecting generators to your internet allows you to remotely monitor your system. The convenience factor adds value as electrical power becomes available during power outages without leaving the house. The cost of generator systems varies greatly depending on preferences and extended needs but generally ranges from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Smart Meters

Smart meters allow for the real-time tracking of energy usage, provide prompt notice of outages, and give information about which appliances consume the most electricity. This enables users to make informed decisions to conserve resources and adjust energy usage accordingly, potentially reducing electricity bills. The installation should be completed by an electrician or the meter supplier’s team.

Smart Solar Power

Solar power is a practical choice for the environment and your finances. You can ensure maximum performance and potential savings by utilizing advanced technology to track and monitor your solar panel output. Due to the complex wiring required for solar panels, it is recommended to involve a certified electrician in the installation process. Several companies market solar power systems, including SolarEdge, Enphase, Outback, Tigo, SunPower, SMA, ReneSola, Conergy, REC, Suniva, and Longi Solar.

Conclusion

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular for its ability to make your life more convenient and save money. It’s easy to reduce energy consumption and lower your electric bill with the right gadgets. Various smart home gadgets are available to help you reduce your electric bill, including smart thermostats and solar panels. You can save energy and money around your home with the proper devices and a little effort.