Smart thermostats and lighting may cut energy expenditures

Many consumers are experiencing an increase in their energy costs as summer temperatures across the nation soar.

According to the US Energy Information Administration, the average monthly energy cost in the US was $121 in 2021.

By utilising blackout curtains or blinds and keeping them closed during the hottest portion of the day, consumers may keep their homes cooler.

According to Energy.gov, reducing the temperature of air conditioners by 7°F to 10°F for at least eight hours a day may save annual energy expenses by as much as 10%.

Making a home more energy efficient may also be accomplished by doing a home energy audit with a local expert who can provide advice.

Additionally, a smart thermostat may automate temperature changes and contribute to energy cost reduction.

WiFi is used by a smart thermostat to connect to an app on the owner’s phone.

Some devices also change the heating and cooling when the user’s phone leaves the home.

According to Sara Rathner, a personal financial expert for NerdWallet, “you can increase or reduce the temperature while you’re not home, so you’re not consuming energy in the house when you’re not going to be there to benefit from it.”

As long as you have your phone with you, you may also operate your heating and cooling systems from wherever you are.

However, not every heating and cooling system in a house is compatible with a smart thermostat.

Radiant heating systems won’t operate with most thermostats since they are designed to work best with forced air systems.

A more conventional manual thermostat may be obtained for approximately $30, while prices for smart home thermostats start at around $100 and increase from there.

Rathner advises searching for seasonal discounts like those seen on Black Friday.

New smart thermostats are also eligible for discounts or incentives from certain energy suppliers.

Consumers may identify incentives in their state using a tool on EnergyStar.gov.

Consumers may also limit electricity to equipment that continue to use energy even when not in use by using other high-tech devices like smart plugs, lightbulbs, and power strips linked to a smart home assistant.