There’s no question about it: smart devices for your home are the wave of the future. They can operate your appliances, see who’s at the front door, open your garage even if you are miles away, and, of course, control your thermostat. But the question on the minds of many is whether they’re really worth it.
That depends. For some, the idea of this much automation can strike fear and anxiety, while for others, convenience and cost-saving technology are well worth it. If you are one of the latter, read on. Today, we’re talking about the best smart devices to help you save energy and reduce your electric bill.
The Rise of the Smart Meter
Before we go into detail about the different types of smart devices that can cut your energy bill, let’s discuss the smart meter. One of the ways that smart meter technology is used by electric companies is by offering an enhanced look at your energy usage. Stream Energy customers in Texas can supplement their Weekly Energy Report with Smart Meter Texas. This provides customers with an excellent way to stay on top of usage trends and save more on their bill.
For example, some energy companies will program peak and off-peak hours into the meter technology to calculate pricing. Off-peak hours are typically overnight and in the early morning, whereas peak times are during the day. The specific times for peak and off-peak hours can vary by energy provider.
Consumers can best utilize this feature by using more energy during off-peak hours and reducing energy use during peak ones. For example, running your dishwasher or washing and drying clothes is best done during off-peak hours to save money. Turning your thermostat down lower to cool the home or up higher to warm it during off-peak hours is another way to save on energy costs, instead of doing those same things during peak hours.
But this can be hard to remember. After all, if your off-peak time doesn’t start until 8 p.m., you could be comfy and cozy on the couch watching your favorite television show. Who wants to get up at that point to wash clothes or turn the dishwasher on? Isn’t it easier to do that earlier in the day? That’s what most people do, which is why these are considered peak hours.
With smart technology, however, you can do everything up to the point of turning your dishwasher or dryer on, then program those appliances to turn on during off-peak hours. Since these devices are programmable from your smartphone, if you forget, you can simply turn them on from there and never have to leave the comfort of your couch or bed.
Lighting can also be programmed with smart technology. You can set your lights to turn on and off at certain times each day. So even if you have a teenager who forgets to turn their closet light off each day, with smart technology, you can set it to shut off without ever having to trek upstairs to make sure it’s off.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Smart Devices?
The cost of installation for smart devices varies. If you buy a plug-n-play device, such as a smart plug, to control lamps or a thermostat that you can switch out yourself, it won’t cost you any more than the device itself, which could range from $50 to $300. If you purchase a device or smart system that requires professional installation, the cost could range from around $1,000 to $5,000 or more for installation, plus the price of the device or system.
Alternatively, there are also smart systems that are subscription based, such as a security system with smart features. These may or may not have an installation and setup fee along with a monthly rate.
Are Smart Devices Worth the Cost?
If saving on your energy bill is a priority, then yes, in the long run, certain smart devices could help you achieve your goal, especially if you take advantage of the energy discounts during off-peak hours. But you should only purchase these devices if they fit into your budget.
Smart thermostats and lighting can definitely help you reduce the cost of your energy bills after the initial investment. Not only will they help ensure that there are no unnecessary lights on, but they will also help you keep costs down by changing the temperature on your HVAC unit, so you don’t make the costly mistake of running it when no one is home. A smart appliance such as a refrigerator can warn you if a door is left open, saving you the cost of wasted energy. Plus, if one of your smart appliances starts to act up, technicians can diagnose the problem remotely, saving you time and money on repair trips.
What Devices Should You Start With?
With so many smart devices to choose from, where do you start? That depends on your needs and priorities. If saving on your energy bill is important to you, then smart lighting control and a smart thermostat are your best bets. You can purchase these products at a local home improvement store, through online platforms such as Amazon, or even through your cable or electric provider. You should be able to install and program these devices yourself, so you’ll begin to see a return on your investment almost immediately.
In addition to adding smart technology to save on energy costs, be sure to check the rates of your current energy provider. Stream Energy, established in 2005, offers the most competitive rates for electricity and natural gas in this deregulated energy market.
Stream Energy proudly serves customers in Texas, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Washington, D.C., Illinois, Delaware, and Ohio. Stream offers a variety of plans to fit your needs, including a plan with 100 percent renewable energy and an EZ Pay program.
If you’re ready to make an overall smart switch to better technology and a better energy service, contact Stream Energy today.
Dil Bole Oberoi
