Building a smarter home, one device at a time

It sometimes feels like technology is advancing and changing every single day, and that’s even the case with energy efficiency. Here at CEMC and Cumberland Connect, we know it can be a lot to keep up with. If you’re considering smart home technology or want to learn more, we are here to help. Here is one device in each room of the house that can improve convenience while helping you manage energy use — meaning you can save energy and money on your electric bill at the same time.

Entryway

Device: Motion-sensing porch lights

Benefit: Outdoor porch lights bring light and decoration to the home, but they can run 10-12 hours every night. Motion-sensing porch lights operate only when movement is detected instead of staying on from dusk until dawn, significantly reducing operating hours and providing a safety feature. Many also use energy-efficient LED bulbs.

Living room

Device: Smart thermostat

Benefit: A smart thermostat doesn’t just help the living room, it saves energy across the whole home. You can program it to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re asleep or away. Over time it learns your routine and avoids heating or cooling an empty house. A smart thermostat can also be controlled remotely if your plans change.

Kitchen

Device: Smart dishwasher

Benefit: While you still have to do your part and wait to run the dishwasher until you have a full load, a smart dishwasher can delay start times when needed so that you can run it at a less peak energy time. Smart dishwashers can also monitor soil levels and use only the water and energy needed to complete the job.

Bedroom

Device: Smart plugs

Benefit: Smart plugs create schedules, so devices aren’t left running all day. They can turn off lamps, fans or other electronics when they’re not needed. Instead of leaving a lamp on for 10 hours when no one is home, it can be scheduled for only the evening hours.

Bathroom and laundry room

Device: Smart water heater

Benefit: Water heating is typically the second-largest energy user in many homes. With a smart water heater, though, water is heated only when it’s needed. A vacation mode can also be set when you’re away to reduce energy even further.

Smart devices don’t automatically equal energy savings. The biggest benefits come from using automation to eliminate waste. Technology that adjusts to your schedule, turns off when they’re not needed or helps your heating and cooling system work more efficiently can reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort.