Green Home Ideas: Smart Technology that Won’t Break the Bank

Green technology products used to be quite expensive, putting them out of reach for the average family. However, that has changed, and there are now a number of eco-friendly gadgets on the market that are not only affordable but can also help you save money over time and create a sustainable home for your family. The following products will get you started on your quest toward green living!

1. Energy Monitors

Installing an energy monitor is a simple step on your journey toward cutting back on your utility bills. This device tracks your energy usage over time. Wondering how much energy your spouse used up during that extra-long shower? The energy monitor will tell you. Awareness alone will help you to be more conscious about what you are doing and how you are doing it. Studies indicate that families can save up to 15% on their power bills simply by having this device installed at their home.

2. “Smart” Thermostats

Thermostats have certainly changed over the years, both in appearance and functionality. There are now products on the market that can automatically adjust the temperature in your home based on daily life in your household. For example, some thermostats use GPS technology to determine when you are heading home after work. They then adjust the temperature accordingly. While it is certainly possible to manually adjust your thermostat at bedtime, when you are leaving the house and each time the temperature dips, most people forget to be diligent about it. A smart thermometer does the work for you, and could help you save hundreds of dollars a year.

3. LED Lighting

LED light bulbs last more than 20 times longer than incandescent lighting, and they use 10 times less energy. The price for this product has continued to drop over the years, which means homeowners intent on installing them throughout the house will not incur as much of a financial hardship. Even replacing just one light bulb with an LED product makes a difference; if everyone in the world were to do so, it would have the same environmental impact as removing more than 7 million cars from the road.

”Smart” Power Strips

Much like manually adjusting thermostats, it is possible for you to unplug your computer, television and other electronic gadgets when they are not in use. However, the reality is that most people don’t remember to take this step, particularly at the end of a long day. These devices drain a lot of energy unnecessarily; smart power strips are the answer. They figure out whether a device needs energy or not, and they then cut off the power to those that don’t, saving quite a bit of energy in the process.

Life is filled with responsibilities. Perhaps your HVAC unit needs to be replaced or maybe you need to call Mole Busters to get your yard in order. Green living may not always be at the top of your priority list, but it is important to give it the attention it deserves. Green technology gadgets are more readily available now than ever before. While you obviously have to invest a little money in order to purchase the products, the return on your investment over time is well worth the initial cost.