4 Ways to Use Technology to Monitor & Control Energy Use
Monitoring your electricity usage is crucial for managing costs and reducing your environmental footprint. On average, U.S. households use about 877 kWh per month1. By using technology to track and control energy consumption, you can make smarter choices that lead to savings. Here are four ways to get started.
1. Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats can help you save up to 10% annually on heating and cooling costs2. They learn your schedule and adjust temperatures automatically, so you’re not wasting energy when you’re not home. For example, they can lower the heat when you’re at work and raise it just before you return, ensuring comfort without unnecessary usage. Many models offer detailed energy usage reports, allowing you to see how your settings impact your bills. With remote control capabilities, you can adjust temperatures from anywhere, ensuring efficiency at all times.
2. Smartphone Apps
Using smartphone apps to monitor energy consumption can lead to a reduction of up to 20% in your overall usage3. These apps, provided by many utility companies or third-party services like Sense, allow you to track real-time power usage. They can identify which appliances are the most energy-hungry, helping you make adjustments. By setting goals and receiving alerts for spikes in usage, you gain insight into your energy habits. This data empowers you to make smarter decisions and reduce waste.
3. Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are an effective way to control the power usage of individual devices, helping reduce “phantom” energy consumption, which accounts for up to 10% of household energy use4. By connecting devices to smart plugs, you can schedule them to turn off when not in use, or control them remotely via a smartphone app. This is especially useful for electronics that stay plugged in all the time, like TVs and chargers, which draw power even when turned off. Smart plugs not only cut down on unnecessary energy use but also provide usage data, helping you understand and optimize your electricity consumption.
4. Home Energy Monitors
Home energy monitors offer detailed insights into your electricity usage and can help you save up to 15% on your energy bills by identifying inefficiencies[^5]. These devices connect to your electrical panel, tracking how much power each appliance or area of your home uses. Some monitors even send alerts if they detect unusual activity, like a sudden spike in usage, which could indicate a malfunctioning appliance. By understanding your consumption patterns, you can make informed decisions about where to cut back, whether it’s upgrading old appliances or simply changing your habits.
Monitoring your electricity usage with technology is a smart way to reduce costs and energy waste. Smart thermostats, smartphone apps, smart plugs, and home energy monitors offer accessible ways to take control of your home’s energy consumption. At NextVolt Energy, we’re here to help guide you through tough decisions that impact your electricity bill.
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