Smart Homes

Smart thermostats, such as the Google Nest Thermostat and ecobee Smart Thermostat, are an easy way to save energy. Smart thermostats are programmable, meaning you can tell it to change the temperature of your home during set times of the day. For example, in the winter you can set your thermostat to decrease by 3-4°C while you’re at work and when you’re sleeping to help save energy. Another bonus is that you can control most smart thermostats from anywhere using your phone. This means you can change the temperature of your home while you’re on the go.

Some smart thermostats can also track how much energy you’re using and when. It can use this data to tell you the best time to change the temperature that will help you maximize savings. Smart thermostats can also help you save by detecting if something is wrong in your heating and cooling system before an incident occurs.

Smart lighting is a great way to personalize your space while saving energy. Smart lights are almost always LEDs, which are 75% more efficient than traditional incandescent lightbulbs. Plus, with today's LEDs, you won't have to sacrificing the brightness that you’re used to.

Another feature of some smart lights is their ability to change colour. Some come in a wide colour spectrum like the Philips Hue Smart Colour Lights, while others can change from warm to cool tone white light. Additionally, you can dim some smart lights from your smart phone, which can add even more savings!

Smart plugs and power bars are a great way reduce phantom power. Phantom power is the energy your electronics use even when they're off or in standby mode. With a smart plug, you can turn your electronics on and off using your smart phone, making it easier to save energy. Some smart plugs can also be voice controlled if you have a smart home hub like a Google Home Mini.

Some smart plugs also have built in timers, meaning you can schedule your electronics and appliances to come on and off at certain times of day. Some newer smart power bars can even cut power to secondary electronics when you turn off the main device. For example, if you turn off your television, the smart power bar will also turn off your gaming console or DVD player.

Smart smoke detectors have many features that help make your home safer. Features can include automatic battery testing, smart phone integration and early detection warnings. Some can even tell the difference between smoke and steam, and whether the smoke it’s detecting needs a heads-up (like burnt toast) or is an emergency. Most models also come with CO monitoring.

Smart home security packages help you keep an eye on your home when you’re away. Cameras can help you see what’s happening outside your home and who may be at your door right from your smart phone. You can even listen and speak to whoever is at your door through the camera. Smart locks let you lock and unlock your door’s deadbolt from anywhere, giving you peace of mind knowing that your home is secure.