Smart homes make energy efficiency easy

Our world is more connected than ever. The evolution of the Internet and smart devices (like phones and tablets) allows us to access information in mere seconds, send emails on the go, and stay in touch with friends and family from around the world.

But did you ever imagine that you could use that smart device to turn on your lights or turn down the temperature in your home? Now you can. “Smart homes” have Wi-Fi connected devices that allow you to control your heating and cooling system, lighting, appliances, and electronics with the simple tap of a button on your smartphone or tablet. By purchasing and installing these smart home products, you can easily program your thermostat or dim your lights, which can help you save money on your energy bill.

Sound interesting? Keep reading to learn more about the different smart products you can use in your home.

Smart lighting

Smart LED bulbs can be controlled through your smart devices at home and away from home. They can be set on timers, dimmed, and even synced to music and movies. They require three things: smart LED bulbs, a bridge for Wi-Fi connectivity, and an app to control your bulbs.

Customizing the lighting system in your home has never been easier or more flexible thanks to bulbs that let you change the colour temperature of the light — anywhere from daylight to warm white — to get the effect you want in a certain space.

Smart lighting controls let you dim your existing LED bulbs from your smart device simply by replacing the switch. You can also install motion sensors that will send alerts to your smart device if there’s activity in your home.

Smart thermostats

Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi connected and let you control your home’s temperature from anywhere. Features vary from brand to brand, but many models can learn from your behaviour to optimize heating and cooling in your home.

Smart plugs

Smart plugs can be added to existing outlets to provide Wi-Fi connectivity. When you plug any appliances or electronics into the smart plug, you can control their functions through your smart device.

For more information on how to save energy and money, visit hydro.mb.ca/your_home