In today’s technologically advanced world, not striving toward energy efficiency is a missed opportunity. 

    Sustainability and technology integrate seamlessly into our lives, including our homes. Going green and doing our best to lower energy waste benefits our generation and future ones. A smart home is an energy-efficient home. Embrace this opportunity, contribute to a greener future, and turn your home into a smart, energy-efficient hub.



    Energy-Efficient Appliances

    Upgrading appliances improves efficiency and lowers energy bills. Select the best model by examining all your options. Replace old, improperly working appliances with energy-efficient alternatives. The up-front investment might seem costly, but will lower utility bill payments for years.

    Modern ENERGY STAR-certified appliances like high-quality Frigidaire models use technology that reduces the amount of electricity used. The higher the efficiency rating, the more energy-efficient an appliance is. For instance, an ENERGY STAR refrigerator is about 9% more energy efficient than non-certified models.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    When shopping, prioritize efficiency over design factors like finish and color. Efficient models pay for themselves through energy savings. Read the yellow EnergyGuide label for details on each model you consider. 


    Smart Lighting Systems

    Of your monthly utility bill, roughly 15% comes from your lighting. Smart lighting maximizes savings through automation and scheduling.

    Smart lighting systems yield remarkable energy savings as they automatically activate lights in response to room occupancy. When you install smart lighting, these systems turn on your lights a few minutes before you arrive and establish lighting schedules for when you’re away, effectively deterring potential burglaries. 

    With efficient LED light bulbs, lighting savings can surpass $200 annually. Philips Hue and other smart bulbs connect to apps for remote, automated control. Geofencing turns them on as you approach and off when you leave.


    Smart Thermostats

    Smarter thermostats are an easy way to save money and maximize home comfort. They learn and remember your temperature preferences, adjusting accordingly.

    The Nest Learning Thermostat, for example, programs itself based on your heating and cooling patterns, automatically adjusting to your ideal temperature and reducing waste. The savings from smart thermostats are, on average, 8% of heating and cooling bills. 


    Smart Bathroom Fixtures

    Technology has also reached our bathrooms. Water conservation is the goal, not just electricity. You can:

    • Reduce water waste with smart showers and efficient toilets.
    • Install dual-flush toilets to control water usage per flush.
    • Install smart showers that track and adjust flow based on your needs.
    • Make simple upgrades like faucet aerators; low-flow fixtures cut hot water usage up to 50%.

    Is a Smart Home Automatically Energy-Efficient?

    Smart homes are energy-efficient homes. Smart home technologies work together to reduce waste without sacrificing your comfort.

    Embrace these advances to enjoy environmental benefits and savings on your monthly bills. While all upgrades have an up-front cost, energy savings allow you to recoup those expenses over time. You can simultaneously “go green” and make your home smarter. 


    FAQs About Smart Homes and Energy Efficiency

    What are my home's biggest energy wasters?

    Heating, cooling, appliances, lighting, and electronics drain the most power. Old, inefficient systems like cooling units waste energy.


    How much can I realistically save upgrading appliances?

    Per ENERGY STAR, a typical household saves around $450 annually on energy bills.


    Should I get smart bulbs for my whole house?

    You should get smart bulbs for all the rooms in your house, but you can get them slowly. Add smart bulbs as older ones burn out. To get the most savings, replace bulbs in high-traffic spots like the kitchen, living room, and exterior lighting.


    What’s the payback period for a smart thermostat?

    Smart thermostats like Nest pay for themselves within two years through energy savings, then continue saving for years.


    Can smart home tech work in older homes, too?

    Yes, smart upgrades are compatible regardless of a home’s age or existing systems, helping modernize older homes.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Laurie Engle

    Laurie Engle

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Laurie Engle is a freelance writer who provides insights to homeowners on topics such as the home warranty industry, relocation issues, and real estate trends. As a licensed Realtor since 2001 Laurie has acquired extensive expertise in dealing with home warranty companies and navigating the intricacies of the real estate market. In addition to her commitment to helping clients with their home buying and selling needs, she maintains a sharp awareness of market dynamics, including property values, interest rates, and local regulations.

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    photo of Sabrina Lopez

    Sabrina Lopez

    Editor

    Sabrina Lopez is a senior editor for Today’s Homeowner with over 7 years of writing and editing experience in digital media. She has reviewed content across categories that matter to homeowners, including HVAC services, home renovations, lawn and garden care, products for the home, and insurance services. When she’s not reviewing articles to make sure they are helpful, accessible, and engaging for homeowners like herself, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her family and their two parrots.

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