5 Energy Saving Gadgets for Your Home

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It may seem counterintuitive to save energy by adding more gadgets to your home, but trust us, if you embrace one (or all!) of these  energy-saving tools you’ll pocket some savings on your electric bill each month. 

 

1.Programmable thermostat

Heating and cooling make up the largest portion of your electric bill. That means it’s the biggest opportunity for savings. A programmable thermostat is an easy tool to make that savings possible. The device allows you to program your heating and cooling. For example, you might schedule the thermostat to keep your home warmer while you’re at work, but have it cool back down before you arrive home. High-tech models can even be programmed from your smart phone and some can even learn your heating and cooling habits. A programmable thermostat is an easy, passive way to save energy with big results. Some experts suggest that a programmable thermostat can save users as much as $180 a year.

 

2.LED light bulb

Although light bulbs were invented more than 150 years ago, the simple device has sparked some recent upgrades Thomas Edison could only dream of. In our modern times, LED light bulbs reign king. And it’s no wonder way. The bulbs use 75 percent less energy than incandescent lights and last up to 25 times longer. According to Energy Star, a single bulb will save about $80 worth of electricity over its lifetime.  Imagine the savings if you replaced every bulb in your home!

 

3.Power strip

A power strips may not seem like a must-have gadget, but this modest device can pack a punch when it comes to energy savings. The average home wastes about $100 a year on standby energy—the power sucked from your electric socket, even when a device is “off”. A power strip offers a convenient way to make sure the power supply is completely cut off from unused devices. Just switch it off to ensure everything that’s plugged into the strip isn’t using your electricity.

 

4.Energy saving outlet

If a power strip isn’t you’re thing, an energy saving outlet can be a great alternative. The outlet helps you eliminate energy waste by shutting off electronics after a period of time. Just plug your device into the outlet and program it to shut off at ½ hour, 3 hours or 6 hours. If the device goes unused after that time period, or is drawing standby power, the outlet will stop the flow of electricity so you can pocket the savings.

 

5.Room occupancy sensor

Is there someone in your house that just can’t seem to turn the lights off? An occupancy sensor might be the best solution for your problem---and your pocketbook. It detects movement and will turn the lights on when you enter a room, and off when you leave. Some models can even sense the level of natural light in a room and won’t turn on your lights unless it’s necessary.