How Can I Save Energy with Home Automation?

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Home automation can help you save energy by ensuring your home uses resources like water and electricity more effectively, reducing waste throughout the home.

You may know that home automation can help increase your home’s convenience and security. But did you know it can also save you money? With home automation, you can make a small difference for the environment—and you see smaller utility bills as a result.

turning on light switch panel
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Home automation can help limit resource use

Light Bulb

In terms of saving energy, smart home systems can do a lot to help you scale back on the amount of water or energy you use on a daily basis.

To save energy in your home, purchase smart home gadgets in one or all of the following areas.

  1. Climate control: Smart thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat and ecobee3 keep your heating and cooling costs at bearable levels. The devices monitor energy usage within the home, as well as outside temperatures, helping to heat or cool your home as efficiently as possible.
  2. Lighting: Lighting controls can be set on timers, preventing lights from staying on all day or night. Many smart lightbulbs work with motion sensors, too. These bulbs respond to people entering and leaving a room, which saves energy and money.
  3. Energy management: Energy management devices include smart power strips and switches. These gadgets can power off lights and appliances, thereby saving energy and reducing costs.
  4. Water allocation: Smart sprinkler systems can plan the most effective watering schedule for your yard, reducing water waste that usually occurs due to poor sprinkler positioning or evaporation. Water leak sensors alert you to a chronic drip before your water bill does.

Some homeowners start with one green home automation product. Others buy two or more. There’s no wrong way to save energy, so figure out what works best for your home and start there. To help with that decision process, visit our resources page.


Compare top smart home products

Product
Best for
Price
Works with
Standout feature
Learn more
Read review
Best smart home security systemAmazon, Google, Z-WaveEasy to customize
Best smart thermostatAmazon, Google, IFTTTKnows when house is vacant
Best virtual assistantGoogle, IFTTTVoice control with great sound
Best smart lockAmazon, Google, AppleOpen-door detection
Best smart outletAmazon, Google, IFTTT, SmartThingsBuilt-in Wi-Fi
Best smart lightsAmazon, Google, Apple, IFTTT, SmartThings16 million colors

Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. SafeWise uses paid Amazon links.

†Google, Google Nest Secure, Google Home, Google Nest Protect, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

Cathy Habas
Written by
Cathy Habas
With over eight years of experience as a content writer, Cathy has a knack for untangling complex information. Her natural curiosity and ability to empathize help Cathy offer insightful, friendly advice. She believes in empowering readers who may not feel confident about a purchase, project, or topic. Cathy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Indiana University Southeast and began her professional writing career immediately after graduation. She is a certified Safe Sleep Ambassador and has contributed to sites like Safety.com, Reviews.com, Hunker, and Thumbtack. Cathy’s pride and joy is her Appaloosa “Chacos.” She also likes to crochet while watching stand-up comedy specials on Netflix.

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