If you're shocked by how many screens, remotes, gaming consoles, charging stations and cords have become fixtures in your home, you’re not alone. The typical American family is well-connected by its many electronic devices.
Consumer electronics, coupled with the growing array of smart-home appliances and technology, have slowly but steadily changed our homes and lifestyles. The increased reliance on our devices has new implications for home energy use and efficiency.
Using Smart Technology
How can we save energy when we’re using more electronic devices than ever? The answer may lie with those same devices that have become indispensable to modern living. In many cases, energy savings are a touchscreen away as more apps enable you to monitor energy use.
From the convenience of your mobile device, smart technologies can maximize your ability to manage electricity use across several platforms—controlling devices like your thermo- stat, appliances, water heater and home electronics. One of the easiest ways to make an impact on energy efficiency is with a smart thermostat.
Using your mobile device, you can view and modify your thermostat schedule, monitor energy usage and make adjustments accordingly. For example, program your thermostat for weekday and weekend schedules so you’re not wasting energy when no one is home. Check and adjust the program periodically to keep pace with changes in household routines.
By enrolling in the Smart Thermostat Program through BEC’s Energy Saver Program, you can get a free, professionally installed ecobee smart thermostat! Upgrade your home and get control of your energy use.
Old-School Savings
Of course, there are time-tested methods of boosting energy efficiency that can be applied to myriad devices and screens.
Computers, printers, phones and gaming consoles are notorious “energy vampires,” meaning they drain energy (and money) when not in use. If they can be turned off without disrupting your lifestyle, consider plugging them into a power strip that can be turned on and off or placed on a timer.
While modern life involves greater dependence on technology, your best resource for saving energy and money remains your local electric co-op.
Regardless of your level of technical expertise with electronic devices, Bandera Electric Cooperative can provide guidance on energy savings to suit your lifestyle.