Let Your Devices Work for You: How to Lower Utility Bills with Technology
Most people are searching for ways to save money. This is especially important right now as families practice social distancing and cope with job losses in the wake of coronavirus. Luckily, today’s devices are far more advanced than they were 5 or 10 years ago. The increased capability gives us more ways to make our devices work for us. Connect Electric wants to share these simple methods that you can use to save money using apps and smart technology.
Let Your Thermostat Lower Heating Costs
Modern thermostats often come with programmable features. You can make good use of these and reliably lower your heating and cooling costs. Set the thermostat to lower temperatures at night or when you are not indoors. That way, you’ll never forget to adjust the settings ever again.
Some models are even more advanced and allow the user to control settings from their mobile device. These are especially convenient because you don’t have to walk to the thermostat to adjust it. The easier it is, the more in control of your utility expenses you will be.
Use Timers to Control Energy Consumption
Plug-in timers aren’t a new concept, but they still bring a lot of value to your household. These tools allow you to connect a plug to an outlet with a timer feature. They are great for devices that you don’t want to run all day long, like electric pet water fountains, outdoor lights, and holiday decorations.
Upgrade Your Home to Smart Light Bulbs
When your old light bulbs burn out, consider switching to smart LED bulbs. LEDs are the most energy efficient on the market. They produce 90 to 112 lumens per watt, compared to 40 to 70 lumens for compact fluorescent lamps and 10 to 17 lumens for incandescent bulbs.
LEDs use arounf 75% less energy than incandescent lights and last much longer. You generate less household waste and use less electricity. Smart features also give you more control when dimming, turning off, or changing color.
Take Advantage of Energy Monitoring
Many utility companies have upgraded their websites to include ways to monitor energy use. Some generate personalized graphs and charts. Others send weekly emails that compare your usage to previous days or weeks.
Use this information to figure out when and where you consume the most energy. Your utility company may also share information and tips on how to lower daily usage.
Alternatively, you can also try a smart energy monitor. This device installs directly onto your service panel and will tell you which appliances are using the most energy. It can identify problem areas, like old appliances that might be using more electricity than they should.
We have access to more technology than ever before. While most devices consume electricity, others can be used to find ways to conserve it. Discover how to lower utility bills without sacrificing the comfort and convenience that energy brings to our homes.
