According to the Consumer Electronics Association, the average American household uses 24 electronic items, which can make it difficult to manage energy use. A home energy management system integrates a smart thermostat, power sockets and power strips into a single energy control system. Plug in electronics to see how much energy they use, then manage them along with lights and air conditioning from a touch-screen display or through an app or website.
- Skill level: Advanced to professional
- Installing a home energy management system is possible for some homeowners, but others will want at least the thermostat professionally installed and set up.
- Cost range: $100 and up
- From basic smart thermostats to whole-house systems with components that “communicate” with each other, home energy management systems can make sense for those who truly want to minimize energy consumption.
- Savings: 10%-30% annually
- Combining high-tech energy management with other money-saving tips is a powerful way to start cutting into the $2,200 the average homeowner spends on energy each year.
