If you take steps to live greener, you’ll be happy to know that the conveniences of home automation come with a bonus: energy savings. And this saving of energy is not only good for the environment; it’s good for your pocketbook.
Read on to learn more about specific automated home systems that allow you to live greener.
4 Ways to Save Energy Through Home Automation
1. Automated Lighting
As you can imagine, being able to ensure your lights are off when not in use is one of the easiest ways to save energy. If kids leave lights on, they can be turned off via your phone from the office (or car after you’ve already left on vacation). Turn on the garage and exterior lights on your way home, rather than leaving them on all day just so you don’t arrive at a dark home.
2. Light Levels
In addition to turning lights off, energy can be saved by reducing the brightness of lights when they are on. By using only the light level you need (like 50% of maximum brightness when you wake up in the morning), you’ll save a proportionate amount of energy and extend the life of your bulbs. As a bonus, your sleepy eyes will appreciate the softer light.
3. Smart Thermostat
Programmable thermostats are one of the most common home control technologies currently in use. However, a “smart” thermostat takes energy-saving benefits to a new level. Rather than automatically switching to scheduled temperatures on a timer, a smart climate control system can work with ceiling fans, motorized shades and sensors to read and respond to the internal climate of your home – including the circadian rhythm and seasons. By communicating with other automated technology, your climate control system regulates your home temperature so your home can be heated and cooled more efficiently, using less energy.
4. Energy-Sucking Appliances
Did you know that your appliances are drawing energy all the time, even when they’re off? By turning the power to these appliances off completely when they won’t be in use, like overnight or while you’re at work, you can stop them from needlessly stealing power and adding to your energy bill.
So how do the cost savings break down?
On average, a household’s energy bill is dominated by heating and cooling, which make up about 56% of your monthly costs. Appliances/electronics, lighting, and water heating each accounts for about 15% of your bill.
With home automation in place, on average you could expect monthly savings on your energy bill of around 16%; that’s nearly a fifth of your energy costs per year!
If you want to save on your energy bill, live greener, and enjoy the conveniences of home automation, contact Suess Electronics. Come into our showroom and visit our 1,200 sq. ft. model home to learn about home automation systems and experience them first hand.
