The winter is finally coming to an end, and with it comes the end of those expensive heating bills. However, just as the need for heat starts to die off, the need for air conditioning is only just beginning. And so we fall into a vicious cycle of heating and cooling, getting no relief from the expensive bills that hit our bank accounts every month. But what if you found out that you were actually spending much more than you need to on heating and cooling?
The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that as much as half of your monthly energy bill goes towards heating and cooling. It also says that much of this energy is unnecessary and recommends taking certain measures to cut down on the amount of energy that your home uses on heating and cooling. But does that mean that you have to start freezing in the winter or dying of heat in the summer. Going without is obviously one way to cut back on energy costs, but it is unnecessary. There are actually a lot of much simpler ways to eliminate that wasted energy in your home.
Programmable Thermostat
A programable thermostat is one of the best ways to save on heating and cooling. You can adjust it so that it will turn the heat or air conditioning down when you are sleeping, and turn it up when you are awake. You can also purchase smart thermostats that remember your habits and do this automatically – no programming necessary.
Energy Monitor
Works in much the same way, but the difference is that it can monitor your home’s total energy usage and help you to figure out where exactly you can cut back. This makes it a great idea for someone who is looking to cut back on every part of their energy usage.
Complete Home Automation – Save on Heating
These two features are ones that can be added to your home to help save energy. But if you want to completely transform your energy usage, guaranteeing ultimate savings, the best thing to do is automate your entire home. This involves installing an energy monitor or programmable thermostat, but also linking up all of your other technologies, such as your lighting, heating, or home security system. Once you do this, you will be able to control everything with your computer, smartphone or tablet from anywhere in the world. What this means is that you can monitor your energy usage, even when you are not at home, allowing you to cut back on unnecessary heating and cooling costs. If you really want to save energy, combine this system with some solar panels or a wind turbine, and you can even start to generate your own energy.
Such a system might be off putting because of the initial cost of installation. But the effects on your bills are almost immediate, and it will keep saving your money every month, so in some respects it could be labeled and gift that keeps giving.
About the Author: Lindsey Patterson is a freelance writer who specializes in the latest technology trends, specifically involved with home automation. She is currently acting as a consultant to Vivint.