Smart homes are not just about making it easier to close the garage, secure the home, turn on the sprinklers, and detect water leaks. Smart homes are also a way to better manage your energy use and save you money.

A smart home automates appliances and devices such as lighting, heating, air conditioning, and entertainment systems through remotely networked systems. A smart home may also include home security devices, such as door locks and video cameras, that are automated and Wi-Fi-connected.

All smart home technologies can be managed through a network for connected devices, such as a smartphone app.

• Forgot to turn the kitchen lights off when you left for vacation? Smart LED bulbs are connected to your home Wi-Fi network and can be controlled from an app on your smart phone, even when you are not home.
• Forgot to adjust the thermostat? Smart thermostats can be connected to your smart phone and allow you to adjust the temperature when you are away.

Some examples of smart home products you can use to reduce your energy waste include smart plugs, motion sensors, and home energy monitors.

1) Smart plugs are simply plugged into existing outlets in the wall and control when the device plugged into them is able to draw power, helping to combat energy vampires.

2) Smart motion sensors can help save energy by controlling lighting both in and outside of your home based on the motion detected. These technologies often pair with home security systems, which can include additional smart devices such as doorbells and cameras. Smart sensors connect to Wi-Fi and provide the ability to create routines and schedules.

3) Home energy monitors allow you to better understand how much energy you are using, when you are using it, and where it is going. Some examples of home energy monitors include the Sense Home Energy Monitor and Emporia Gen 2 Vue Energy Monitor.

Focus on Energy offers smart plugs and instant discounts on several ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostats through the Focus on Energy Online Marketplace. A smarter home will bring you comfort, security, and savings!