Smart home devices are revolutionizing how we manage energy use in our homes. From smart thermostats to lighting systems, these tools make it easy to monitor and reduce energy consumption, helping both the environment and your wallet. However, with any technology, it’s essential to weigh the benefits and potential downsides before diving in. Here’s a guide to smart home devices for energy efficiency and tips on maximizing their potential.

Smart Thermostats

Pros: Smart thermostats like the Nest or Ecobee are designed to learn your schedule and adjust the temperature automatically. They track your daily habits, allowing them to reduce heating and cooling when you’re not home, which can lead to significant energy savings. Many models also allow remote control via smartphone, so you can make adjustments even when you're away. Some models even give you monthly reports on energy usage, helping you stay aware of your heating and cooling patterns.

Cons: The main downside is the upfront cost, ranging from $100 to $300. Installation may also require technical knowledge, especially if your home’s wiring is outdated. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of automatic adjustments, the thermostat’s learning features may feel intrusive. Ensure you select the correct thermostat model for your existing wiring. Older models have four wires, while newer ones have an added wire for continuous power. 

Tips for Maximizing Efficiency: Set a schedule that reflects your daily routines and adjust temperatures for daytime and nighttime. Many smart thermostats offer eco or vacation modes—use these settings to save energy when you’re away for extended periods.

Smart Plugs and Power Strips

Pros: Smart plugs and power strips allow you to control individual devices, reducing “phantom” energy drain from electronics that are turned off but still plugged in. They’re easy to use—just plug them into any outlet, connect the device, and control the power via an app. Some smart plugs also come with timers or scheduling options, which are especially handy for devices like coffee makers, fans, and TVs.

Cons: The initial investment can add up if you want multiple smart plugs. They also require Wi-Fi to function fully, which can be inconvenient if your internet goes out. Additionally, some smart plugs may not work with high-wattage appliances, so you’ll need to read the specifications carefully.

Tips for Maximizing Efficiency: Use smart plugs on devices that are often left on or plugged in, like entertainment systems, kitchen appliances, and phone chargers. Set schedules for these devices to ensure they only use power when needed. Group devices on one power strip and use it to shut down entire areas like home offices when not in use.

Smart Lighting Systems

Pros: Smart lighting systems, such as Philips Hue or LIFX, provide remote control, dimming options, and color customization. You can turn lights on or off from anywhere, set schedules, and adjust brightness based on your needs. Smart lighting can also be integrated with voice assistants, adding convenience to your daily routine. Dimmable lights are particularly helpful for energy savings, as reducing brightness uses less power.

Cons: Smart lighting systems are pricier than traditional LED lights. They require Wi-Fi and a compatible hub or app for full functionality. Additionally, some systems only work with specific bulbs or fixtures, which can limit flexibility. Compatibility with existing fixtures or dimmer switches may also require additional setup.

Tips for Maximizing Efficiency: Use motion sensors in rooms like bathrooms or hallways to automatically turn lights off when they’re not in use. Set schedules for outdoor lights and dim indoor lights to appropriate levels based on the time of day. Some smart lights also have “away” modes to make it appear that someone is home, adding security while conserving energy.

Smart Appliances

Pros: Energy-efficient smart appliances, such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, and ovens, offer settings that optimize power usage. Many can be controlled remotely, allowing you to start or stop cycles at off-peak times to save on energy costs. Some models even have built-in diagnostics, helping you identify maintenance needs before they become costly repairs.

Cons: Smart appliances come with a higher price tag; if your Wi-Fi goes down, you may lose some of the remote functionalities. Additionally, their repair and maintenance costs may be higher, as not all technicians specialize in smart technology.

Tips for Maximizing Efficiency: Use the scheduling function to run appliances like washing machines or dishwashers during off-peak energy hours, which can often reduce electricity costs. Take advantage of eco or energy-saving modes on these appliances to further reduce power usage.

Home Energy Monitors

Pros: Home energy monitors track overall energy use, identifying high-consumption areas and alerting you to devices that use more power than expected. They provide real-time data on your home’s energy consumption, which helps you make informed decisions about energy-saving adjustments. Many monitors also track individual circuits, giving you a detailed breakdown of where energy is being used.

Cons: Home energy monitors can be costly and may require professional installation to connect to your electrical panel. If you’re not interested in monitoring energy consumption closely, you may find these devices unnecessary.

Tips for Maximizing Efficiency: Use the data from energy monitors to target specific areas of your home for improvements, such as unplugging rarely-used appliances, adjusting HVAC settings, or upgrading high-consumption devices.

Is Smart Technology Right for Your Home?

Smart home devices offer substantial benefits in terms of energy efficiency, convenience, and home automation. However, they do come with a higher upfront cost and a learning curve. For many homeowners, the long-term savings on energy bills and the added convenience outweigh the initial investment. Also, frequent power outages may require resetting or reinstalling your devices.

By choosing the right devices for your needs, setting schedules, and monitoring energy usage patterns, you can maximize the efficiency of your smart home technology. Whether it’s a thermostat that learns your schedule or a smart plug that controls power-hungry devices, smart home tech can bring greater energy efficiency—and savings—to your home.

At Thomas Edison Electric, we can help you assess and install energy-saving devices, from thermostats to lighting systems. Our team is here to help you make the most of your smart home upgrades, ensuring your home is as efficient and cost-effective as possible.