Smart Home Devices That Save You Money and Energy: Smart home technology has transformed the way we interact with our living spaces. But beyond convenience and security, today’s smart devices are also powerful tools for saving energy and reducing utility bills. From thermostats that learn your behavior to lights that turn off automatically, these devices optimize your energy use without sacrificing comfort.
Here’s a deep dive into 12 essential smart home devices that help you save both money and energy in 2025.
12 Smart Home Devices That Save You Money and Energy
1. Smart Thermostats
Examples: Nest Learning Thermostat, Ecobee SmartThermostat, Amazon Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are among the most impactful devices for energy savings. They:
- Learn your temperature preferences and routines
- Automatically adjust when you’re away
- Integrate with weather data to optimize HVAC usage
- Offer detailed energy reports
Savings: Up to 20% on heating and cooling bills, according to the EPA.
2. Smart Plugs
Examples: TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug, Wemo Smart Plug, Meross Wi-Fi Plug
Smart plugs control the power flow to devices, making “dumb” appliances smart. You can:
- Schedule appliances to turn off when not needed
- Cut phantom energy use (standby power)
- Monitor energy usage from your phone
Savings Tip: Use them with TVs, coffee makers, or space heaters to avoid standby drain.
3. Smart Power Strips
Examples: APC Smart Plug Strip, Eve Energy Strip, Teckin Smart Strip
Smart power strips take smart plugs a step further. They:
- Turn off multiple devices at once
- Detect inactive devices and cut their power automatically
- Let you control each outlet individually
Savings: Prevents up to 10% of total household energy waste from idle electronics.
4. Smart Lighting Systems
Examples: Philips Hue, LIFX, Wyze Bulbs
Smart LED lights use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Their smart features include:
- Dimming and color temperature adjustments
- Motion-sensing or geofencing to turn off lights automatically
- Integration with voice assistants and routines
Bonus: Scheduling outdoor lights to only turn on at night saves considerable electricity.
5. Smart Motion Sensors
Examples: Aqara Motion Sensor, Philips Hue Motion Sensor
Motion sensors control lighting or electronics based on room occupancy. They’re ideal for:
- Bathrooms
- Closets
- Garages
- Hallways
Savings: Automatically turning off lights or devices when rooms are unoccupied reduces waste.
6. Smart Window Shades
Examples: Lutron Serena Shades, IKEA Fyrtur, Eve MotionBlinds
Smart shades help regulate natural heating and cooling:
- Close during hot afternoons to keep rooms cool
- Open during sunny winter days to warm spaces
- Schedule and automate based on sun position or time of day
Energy Benefits: Reduce reliance on HVAC systems by managing indoor temperature naturally.
READ ALSO: Best Budget Laptops for Students in 2025
7. Smart Ceiling Fans
Examples: Haiku by Big Ass Fans, Hunter Symphony
Smart ceiling fans optimize airflow and operate based on:
- Room occupancy
- Indoor temperature
- Scheduled routines or voice commands
Savings: They reduce cooling costs by distributing air more efficiently, reducing HVAC load.
8. Smart Irrigation Systems
Examples: Rachio 3, Orbit B-hyve
These controllers prevent water waste by adjusting watering based on:
- Weather forecasts
- Soil moisture
- Time of day
Benefits: Up to 50% reduction in outdoor water use, especially in dry climates.
9. Smart Appliances (Energy Star Certified)
Examples: LG ThinQ Washer/Dryer, Samsung SmartThings Appliances
Modern smart appliances track and optimize their energy use. You can:
- Run laundry during off-peak energy hours
- Receive alerts for full loads or maintenance
- Auto-adjust refrigerator settings based on usage
Savings: Long-term reduction in electricity and water usage.
10. Smart Water Leak Detectors
Examples: Flo by Moen, YoLink, Govee Water Sensors
They don’t directly save energy, but they prevent energy and money loss from:
- Undetected leaks
- Water damage that affects insulation
- Mold-related HVAC overuse
ROI: Fast alerts help prevent thousands in water and structural damage.
11. Smart HVAC Vents
Examples: Flair Smart Vents, Keen Home Smart Vents
These replace standard air vents and:
- Control airflow to specific rooms
- Automate based on room occupancy or temperature
- Improve HVAC efficiency by directing air where it’s needed
Result: Balanced temperatures and lower heating/cooling costs.
12. Home Energy Monitors
Examples: Sense Energy Monitor, Emporia Vue
Track real-time usage across your entire house:
- Detect which devices are using the most power
- Identify “energy vampires” and fix inefficiencies
- Set up alerts for abnormal usage
Ideal For: People looking to seriously reduce consumption by understanding patterns.
How These Devices Work Together
When integrated through platforms like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, or Samsung SmartThings, your smart devices can communicate, creating automation routines such as:
- Turning off all lights and plugs when you leave the house
- Lowering thermostat settings at night
- Running the dishwasher or laundry when energy rates are lowest
- Opening shades and turning off lights in the morning
FAQs
Are smart devices really worth the upfront cost?
Yes most smart energy-saving devices offer return on investment within 1–3 years. For example, a $200 smart thermostat may save you $150 per year on energy bills.
Do smart homes consume more electricity due to constant connectivity?
They use minimal standby power (typically less than 1–2W per device), which is offset by much larger savings from optimized usage. The net result is a reduction in overall energy consumption.
Can I install smart home devices myself?
Most smart devices are DIY-friendly. Smart plugs, bulbs, thermostats, and cameras often come with app-guided installation. For smart vents or thermostats, basic wiring knowledge helps.
Which smart home platform should I choose?
- Google Home: Great AI routines and Android compatibility
- Amazon Alexa: Broad device support, budget-friendly
- Apple HomeKit: Strong privacy focus, seamless for iOS users
- Samsung SmartThings: Best for advanced automations
Stick to one platform for easier integration.
How do smart thermostats know when I’m away?
They use:
- Motion sensors
- Geofencing via your smartphone location
- Learning algorithms over time
You can also manually set “Away” or “Eco” modes.
Will smart lighting work if my internet is down?
Many smart lighting systems (e.g., Philips Hue) operate on local hubs or Bluetooth, so they continue to function without the internet—though you may lose app control temporarily.
Are these devices secure? Can they be hacked?
Security risks exist, but they can be minimized by:
- Using strong, unique passwords
- Enabling two-factor authentication
- Keeping firmware updated
- Buying devices from reputable brands
What’s the difference between smart plugs and smart strips?
- Smart plugs: Single-outlet control, ideal for lamps or coffee makers
- Smart strips: Multiple outlets, often with individual control and surge protection—great for entertainment centers or home offices
How do smart shades help with energy efficiency?
They:
- Block heat in summer = lower AC use
- Let in warmth in winter = less heating needed
- Reduce reliance on HVAC systems
Bonus: They also protect furniture and flooring from UV damage.
Can renters install smart home devices?
Yes! Renters can use:
- Smart bulbs, plugs, power strips
- Battery-operated motion sensors
- Portable smart speakers and hubs
- Smart thermostats (if allowed by landlord)
Choose devices that don’t require permanent installation.