From Guest Blogger Sarah Landrum: Smart Homes, Efficiency, Breakthrough Tech for Smart Homes that Saves You Money While You Save the Planet

Progress happens in small steps. Maybe you replaced an older appliance with an energy-efficient model. You dutifully buy CFL bulbs and now you’re venturing into LEDs. When it’s time for a new car, gas mileage is at the top of your mind.

If you’re wondering what else you can do to reduce your carbon footprint at home without spending a small fortune, read on to learn about the newest tech solutions for energy cost savings and a greener planet.

Remote Thermostat Control

You don’t want to run the air or heat at full blast while you’re away, but you don’t want to come home to an uncomfortable temperature either. Luckily you don’t have to choose between energy savings and personal comfort anymore. Programmable thermostats, sometimes part of larger home-automation systems, allow you to control your house’s temperature from smartphones, tablets and laptops. Wherever you are, you can log in and turn the temperature down while you’re away, then back up before you return.

Smart thermostats vary in the additional features they offer. The Nest Learning Thermostat promises to pick up on your habits and adjust itself accordingly. Honeywell’s Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat offers an indoor humidity sensor and smart response temperature timing. Many of these thermostats can be used in a zone system, which allows you to vary the temperature of individual rooms or zones in your house. You don’t need to heat the guest room when no one’s in it, for example.

Motion Sensors for Electricity Conservation

Do you or someone you live with often forget to turn off the light when leaving a room? This common habit wastes energy and your money, especially if the lights stay on while you’re at work. Motion-sensor light switches are an easy and inexpensive way to fix this problem. They can also be convenient when you have guests over – no more fumbling in the dark for a bathroom or hallway light switch. Occupancy sensors also work well for outdoor lights. Now there’s no reason to have any light on unless someone is in the vicinity.

You can also conserve the energy your electronics consume with energy-saving surge protectors. The basic feature of these devices is the ability to turn off standby power, which is the electricity your devices eat up even when they’re off or not in use but still plugged in. Some surge protectors come with timers, which could be useful at work. Others include one or two always-on outlets for gadgets like routers and cable boxes.

Solar Power

Lighting is one of the biggest sources of energy consumption in American homes. In addition to using motion sensors, you can replace electric outdoor lighting with solar-powered lamps and lanterns. You may also want to take a second look at solar panels. The cost of installation is coming down as this technology becomes more popular, making it possible to save money right away.

Automatic Irrigation System

When trying to conserve energy and cut costs, leave no part of your home untouched. For example, you can use long-lasting materials that won’t need frequent maintenance or replacement such as faux wood garage doors that are practical and stylish.

Also, don’t overlook the water you use to keep lawns and other landscaping alive. A smart sprinkler works in many of the same ways as a programmable thermostat. You can control your water usage remotely, and the sprinkler will also help you figure out when and how much to water based on weather forecasts and the specific needs of your plants.

When it’s easy and affordable to save the planet and cut your energy bills, home tech is a no-brainer. Enjoy the convenience and efficiency of today’s smart energy solutions.