Whether you’re running the air conditioner during a hot summer in Texas, heating your home through a New England winter, or simply trying to reduce everyday household expenses, finding ways to use less energy can make a meaningful difference.

The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to replace every appliance in your home or make expensive renovations. The right smart home devices can help you automate energy-saving habits, monitor electricity consumption, and avoid wasting power when it isn’t needed.

From smart thermostats and energy-monitoring plugs to automated window shades and smart irrigation controllers, today’s technology offers several practical ways to manage household energy use. If you’re looking for affordable ways to get started, our guide to budget-friendly smart home gadgets explores practical options for reducing unnecessary electricity consumption.

But not every smart gadget will save you money. Some devices mainly provide convenience, while others can help address specific sources of energy waste.

In this guide, we’ll explore nine smart home devices that can help lower your energy bill, explain how they work, and show you what to consider before buying.

Important: Energy savings vary from home to home. Your results depend on your climate, utility rates, insulation, appliances, existing habits, and how you configure each device.

Quick Overview: Which Smart Home Devices Are Worth Considering?

Before we explore each option, here’s a quick comparison.

Our recommendation: Start by identifying where your home uses the most energy. Then choose a smart device that addresses that specific issue.

1. Smart Thermostats: A Practical Way to Manage Heating and Cooling

Best for: Homeowners and renters with compatible heating or cooling systems.

If you’re looking for one of the most useful smart home upgrades for managing energy consumption, a smart thermostat is a good place to start.

Heating and cooling can account for a substantial portion of household energy use, particularly in regions with very hot summers or cold winters. A smart thermostat can help you manage that demand by adjusting temperature settings according to your schedule and preferences.

Unlike a basic thermostat, a connected model typically allows you to control your HVAC system through a smartphone app. Some models also support scheduling, occupancy detection, temperature sensors, and energy-use reports.

How Does a Smart Thermostat Save Energy?

A smart thermostat can help you avoid heating or cooling an empty home.

For example, you could configure it to:

• Raise the cooling temperature when everyone leaves for work or school.
• Reduce heating during periods when the house is empty.
• Return to a comfortable setting before you arrive home.
• Follow a weekly schedule.
• Provide reminders or reports about HVAC operation.
• Coordinate with compatible room sensors.

Some models can learn your routine, while others rely on schedules that you create yourself.

The key benefit is not that the thermostat magically makes your HVAC system more efficient. Rather, it can help you avoid unnecessary heating and cooling.

Your thermostat is only one part of an energy-saving strategy. Small changes to temperature settings, HVAC habits, and household routines can also make a difference. For more practical advice, explore our guide on how to reduce your electric bill in the USA

Smart Thermostats Worth Considering

Google Nest Learning Thermostat

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is designed to learn temperature preferences and support automated scheduling. It also provides app-based control and compatibility with selected smart-home systems.

Potential advantages:

• Learning and scheduling features
• Remote temperature control
• Energy-related reports
• Integration with compatible smart-home products

Before buying: Check compatibility with your HVAC system, especially if you have a heat pump, multi-stage equipment, or a system that requires a common wire.

ecobee Smart Thermostat

ecobee offers smart thermostats with features such as remote sensors, scheduling, and app-based control. Certain models can help manage comfort in different rooms.

Potential advantages:

• Remote temperature sensors
• Smart scheduling
• Smartphone control
• Compatibility with selected smart-home platforms

What About Energy Savings?

ENERGY STAR says certified smart thermostats are evaluated for energy-saving performance. The amount you save depends on your existing thermostat settings, climate, HVAC system, and household habits.

For reliable information, see the ENERGY STAR smart thermostat guide.

SmartDealFinds tip: Before purchasing a thermostat, check your HVAC compatibility and look for available rebates from your electricity or natural gas provider.

2. Smart Plugs: An Affordable Way to Control Everyday Electronics

Best for: Lamps, selected electronics, and appliances that don’t need continuous power.

A smart plug is one of the simplest ways to add automation to an existing home.

It connects to a standard wall outlet and allows you to control a compatible device through a smartphone app, voice assistant, or schedule.

Some smart plugs also measure electricity consumption, helping you understand how much power a connected appliance uses.

How Can Smart Plugs Help Lower Electricity Use?

Many electronic devices consume some electricity while plugged in, even when they appear to be turned off. This is often called standby power or phantom energy use.

If you’re interested in inexpensive ways to automate everyday electronics, take a look at our guide to budget-friendly smart home gadgets. It explores smart plugs, motion-sensor lights, and other practical devices for managing household electricity use.

The amount varies considerably by device. A smart plug can help by switching selected electronics off when they’re not needed.

For example, you could use one to:

• Turn off a desk lamp automatically.
• Schedule decorative lighting.
• Control selected entertainment equipment.
• Switch off compatible office electronics overnight.
• Monitor the electricity consumption of a small appliance.
• Create an “away” routine for selected devices.

Smart Plugs With Energy Monitoring

If your goal is to understand your electricity use, consider a model that displays energy data.

Depending on the product, you may be able to see:

• Current power consumption
• Daily electricity use
• Historical usage
• Estimated operating costs
• Changes in consumption over time

This information can help you decide whether an appliance is worth keeping on standby.

What Should You Avoid Plugging Into a Smart Plug?

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and electrical ratings.

Be especially careful with:

• High-power heaters
• Medical equipment
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Devices that must remain powered
• Appliances with motors or compressors
• Equipment that exceeds the plug’s rated load

A smart plug is not a universal replacement for a properly installed electrical control.

SmartDealFinds tip: If you’re new to smart home technology, start with one or two compatible lamps or electronics. Test the schedule before expanding your setup.

3. Smart Lighting: Reduce Unnecessary Lighting Use

Best for: Homes with inefficient bulbs, frequently forgotten lights, or rooms that benefit from automation.

Lighting is another area where small changes can add up.

Modern LED bulbs generally use substantially less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs. Smart lighting adds another layer of control by allowing you to schedule, dim, or remotely switch off compatible lights.

However, it’s important to understand the difference between energy-efficient lighting and smart lighting.

An LED bulb can save electricity because it uses less power to produce light. A smart bulb may provide additional savings when its controls prevent unnecessary use.

What Can Smart Lighting Do?

Depending on the product, smart lighting can allow you to:

• Turn lights off from your phone.
• Set schedules.
• Dim compatible bulbs.
• Create sunrise and sunset routines.
• Use motion sensors.
• Control several lights at once.
• Turn lights off automatically when you’re away.

For example, you could create a routine that switches off selected lights when everyone leaves the house.

Smart Bulbs vs. Smart Switches

Smart bulbs are useful for lamps and fixtures where you want individual bulb control.

They may offer:

• Dimming
• Color-temperature adjustments
• Remote control
• Scheduling
• Voice assistant integration

Smart switches are often better for ceiling lights or fixtures controlled from a wall switch.

They can be useful when you want to control existing light fixtures without replacing every bulb.

What to Check Before Buying

• Bulb base and fixture compatibility
• Dimming support
• Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or other connectivity requirements
• Smart-home platform compatibility
• Whether a smart switch requires a neutral wire
• Whether physical controls remain available

Smart lighting can be useful for more than energy management. It can also improve convenience, mood, and everyday home automation. Browse our smart lighting ideas and products for more ways to upgrade your home’s lighting setup.

SmartDealFinds tip: If you’re still using incandescent bulbs, upgrade to suitable LEDs first. Smart controls are most useful when they also help reduce unnecessary operating time.

4. Automated Window Shades: Manage Sunlight and Indoor Comfort

Best for: Rooms with strong direct sunlight or windows that contribute to unwanted heat gain.

Your windows affect how much heat enters or leaves your home.

During summer, direct sunlight can increase indoor temperatures. During winter, windows can contribute to heat loss, depending on their construction and the surrounding building envelope.

Automated window shades can help you manage sunlight by opening and closing according to schedules or environmental conditions.

How Smart Shades Can Help

Depending on the product and your home’s design, automated shades may help you:

• Block strong afternoon sunlight.
• Reduce unwanted solar heat gain.
• Use natural daylight more effectively.
• Adjust shades according to sunrise and sunset.
• Coordinate shades with compatible smart-home routines.
• Improve comfort in rooms that overheat.

For example, you might schedule shades to close during the hottest part of a summer afternoon and open when the sun is less intense.

During cooler weather, opening shades at suitable times may allow sunlight to warm a room naturally.

What to Consider

Look for:

• Motorized operation
• Scheduling
• Light or temperature sensors
• Battery-powered options
• Manual controls
• Smart-home compatibility
• Easy installation
• Appropriate shade size and window coverage

The energy benefits depend on your windows, insulation, climate, and how you use the shades.

SmartDealFinds tip: If you have a room that gets extremely hot in the afternoon, consider addressing the window exposure first. Smart shades may be useful, but they are only one part of a home’s overall energy strategy.

5. Whole-Home Energy Monitors: Find Out Where Your Electricity Goes

Best for: Homeowners who want detailed information about household electricity consumption.

One of the biggest challenges of lowering an energy bill is figuring out which appliances and systems use the most electricity.

A whole-home energy monitor can help you investigate.

Unlike a plug-in energy meter, which measures one device, a whole-home monitor measures electricity consumption across your home. Some systems can also provide information about individual circuits or selected appliances.

How Does a Home Energy Monitor Work?

Many whole-home monitoring systems use sensors installed near the electrical service equipment or inside the electrical panel.

Depending on the model, the system may provide:

• Real-time electricity consumption
• Historical usage data
• Estimated energy costs
• Usage alerts
• Circuit-level information
• Smartphone dashboards
• Reports about consumption patterns

For example, you may discover that your electric water heater, air conditioner, or clothes dryer uses considerably more electricity than you expected.

That information can help you prioritize improvements.

Emporia Energy Monitor

Emporia offers energy-monitoring products designed to help households track electricity consumption.

Depending on the model and installation, the system may provide information about whole-home use and selected circuits.

Potential advantages:

• Real-time energy data
• Smartphone monitoring
• Circuit-level monitoring on compatible systems
• Historical consumption information
• Support for identifying high-use equipment

Important Installation Note

Some whole-home energy monitors require access to the electrical panel.

Do not attempt electrical-panel installation unless you are qualified to do so. Depending on the product and local requirements, you may need a licensed electrician.

SmartDealFinds tip: If you’re unsure which appliances consume the most electricity, an energy monitor may be more useful than purchasing several smart gadgets without a clear plan.

6. Smart Power Strips: Manage Groups of Electronics

Best for: Home offices, entertainment centers, and other areas with several connected devices.

A smart power strip can help you manage multiple electronics from one location.

It may offer individually controlled outlets, scheduling, surge protection, or energy-monitoring features, depending on the model.

Why Smart Power Strips Can Be Useful

Consider a home entertainment center with:

• A television
• Streaming devices
• Speakers
• Gaming accessories
• Chargers
• Other electronics

Some of these devices may continue consuming electricity when they’re not actively being used.

A suitable smart power strip can help you switch selected equipment off during the night or when you’re away.

You could also use one in a home office to manage compatible accessories and lighting.

Features to Look For

• Individually controlled outlets
• Scheduling
• Energy monitoring
• Surge protection
• Appropriate electrical ratings
• Physical on/off controls
• Smart-home compatibility
• Child-safety features, where relevant

Are Smart Power Strips Better Than Regular Power Strips?

Not necessarily.

A smart power strip may consume a small amount of electricity to operate its own electronics. Its potential benefit comes from helping you control connected equipment and reduce unnecessary usage.

If you want to explore more affordable ways to automate household electronics, our guide to budget-friendly smart home gadgets includes practical ideas for managing standby power and everyday appliances.

SmartDealFinds tip: Use smart power strips for devices that can safely be switched off together. Avoid disconnecting equipment that needs continuous power or must remain available for safety or operational reasons.

7. Energy-Efficient Smart Appliances: Upgrade When It Makes Sense

Best for: Households replacing old or inefficient appliances.

Smart appliances can offer features such as remote control, notifications, scheduling, and usage information.

However, the presence of a smart connection does not automatically make an appliance more energy-efficient.

If you’re replacing an older appliance, focus first on its actual energy performance.

Smart Refrigerators

Some connected refrigerators offer features such as:

• Temperature alerts
• Remote monitoring
• Door-open notifications
• Inventory tools
• Diagnostics

Energy consumption depends on the refrigerator’s design, size, efficiency, settings, and usage.

Don’t assume that a refrigerator uses less electricity simply because it has a smartphone app.

Smart Washers and Dryers

Connected laundry appliances may provide:

• Cycle notifications
• Remote controls
• Scheduling
• Maintenance alerts
• Usage information

Some models include load-sensing or efficiency features, but these should be evaluated separately from their smart capabilities.

How to Choose an Efficient Appliance

Before purchasing, compare:

• Energy Guide information
• ENERGY STAR certification, where applicable
• Annual energy consumption
• Appliance size
• Operating costs
• Purchase price
• Repair and maintenance costs
• Smart features you will actually use

For American shoppers, the ENERGY STAR product database is a useful starting point for comparing certified products.

SmartDealFinds tip: Don’t replace a perfectly functioning appliance solely because a newer model has smart features. Consider the total cost and expected energy savings before upgrading.

8. Smart Leak Sensors: Detect Water Problems Before They Become Expensive

Best for: Homes with water heaters, washing machines, sinks, basements, or other areas vulnerable to leaks.

Smart leak sensors are designed to detect moisture and alert you when water appears in an unexpected location.

Although these devices primarily protect your home from water damage, they can also help you identify certain water-wasting problems.

For example, an undetected plumbing leak or continuously running toilet may increase your water bill.

Where Should You Install a Smart Leak Sensor?

Common locations include:

• Under kitchen sinks
• Beneath bathroom sinks
• Near washing machines
• Around water heaters
• In basements
• Near sump pumps
• Around refrigerators with water connections
• In utility rooms

Depending on the product, a sensor may send a smartphone notification when it detects moisture.

Some advanced systems can work with an automatic water shut-off valve.

What to Look For

• Reliable moisture detection
• Smartphone alerts
• Battery-life information
• Audible alarms
• Multiple sensor support
• Water shut-off compatibility
• Installation requirements
• Connectivity and privacy features

Can a Leak Sensor Lower Your Water Bill?

A leak sensor does not reduce water consumption by itself.

Its value is in helping you discover problems sooner. If a sensor alerts you to a leak that would otherwise go unnoticed, you may be able to reduce water waste and avoid costly damage.

SmartDealFinds tip: Place sensors near the appliances and plumbing fixtures most likely to leak. Test the alerts regularly so you know they work when needed.

9. Smart Irrigation Controllers: Use Less Water Outdoors

Best for: Homeowners with lawns, gardens, and automatic sprinkler systems.

Energy savings aren’t limited to electricity.

If you pay for municipal water, reducing unnecessary outdoor watering may also help lower your utility costs.

Traditional sprinkler timers often follow a fixed schedule. They may continue watering even after rainfall or when outdoor conditions don’t require additional irrigation.

A smart irrigation controller can adjust watering based on schedules, weather information, soil conditions, or other available data.

How Smart Irrigation Controllers Work

Depending on the model, a smart controller may:

• Adjust watering after rainfall.
• Respond to local weather information.
• Use seasonal schedules.
• Help prevent unnecessary watering.
• Support multiple zones.
• Provide smartphone control.
• Offer water-use reports.

Some controllers are designed to meet EPA WaterSense criteria.

The EPA WaterSense program provides information about weather-based irrigation controllers and water-efficient irrigation practices.

What to Consider Before Buying

• Number of sprinkler zones
• Compatibility with your existing wiring
• Local weather-data support
• Soil or moisture-sensor compatibility
• Smartphone access
• Manual override options
• Rain-delay functionality
• Local watering restrictions

Can Smart Irrigation Lower Your Utility Bill?

It may help reduce unnecessary outdoor watering, particularly if your existing sprinkler schedule is inefficient.

However, savings depend on rainfall, lawn size, local water rates, landscaping, and how much water your property actually needs.

SmartDealFinds tip: Check your local watering rules before setting up an automated irrigation schedule.

Which Smart Home Device Should You Buy First?

If you’re trying to lower your energy bill, you don’t need to buy all nine devices at once.

The best starting point depends on your home and your biggest source of energy consumption.

Best for Heating and Cooling

Smart thermostat

Choose this if you use central heating or air conditioning and want better temperature scheduling and control.

Best for Small Electronics

Smart plug

Choose this if you want an inexpensive way to automate selected lamps and electronics.

Best for Understanding Your Electricity Use

Whole-home energy monitor

Choose this if you want to identify which appliances and systems consume the most electricity.

Best for Lighting

Smart LED bulbs or smart switches

Choose these if you frequently leave lights on or want more control over your lighting.

Best for a Home Office

Smart power strip

Choose this if you have several compatible electronics that can safely be switched off together.

Best for Water Conservation

Smart irrigation controller

Choose this if you have an automatic sprinkler system and want better control over outdoor watering.

How to Estimate Whether a Smart Device Is Worth the Cost

Before purchasing a smart home device, consider its potential return on investment.

A simple way to estimate electricity costs is:

Annual electricity cost = Power consumption in kilowatts × Hours of use × Electricity price per kWh

For example, imagine an appliance uses 100 watts and operates for 4 hours each day.

1. Convert watts to kilowatts:
   100 ÷ 1,000 = 0.1 kW
2. Calculate annual consumption:
   0.1 × 4 × 365 = 146 kWh
3. At an illustrative electricity rate of $0.20 per kWh:
   146 × $0.20 = $29.20 per year

This example shows the cost of operating the appliance. It does not represent guaranteed savings from a smart device.

To estimate potential savings, compare the electricity used before and after introducing a new schedule or control.

Also consider:

• Purchase price
• Installation costs
• Subscription fees
• Maintenance
• Expected device lifespan
• Available rebates
• Whether you would use the features consistently

A low-cost smart plug may be worthwhile for one household but unnecessary for another.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Energy-Saving Smart Devices

1. Assuming Every Smart Device Saves Money

A device may be smart without being energy-efficient.

Look for products that address a specific source of waste.

2. Buying Products Without Checking Compatibility

Smart thermostats, switches, and irrigation controllers may not work with every existing system.

Always check compatibility before purchasing.

3. Ignoring the Cost of Installation

Electrical-panel monitors, hardwired switches, and certain shades may require professional installation.

Include that cost in your budget.

4. Choosing Features You Won’t Use

A device with dozens of features isn’t necessarily better if you only need a simple schedule.

5. Expecting Immediate Savings

Some devices may provide convenience or useful information before they produce noticeable financial benefits.

6. Forgetting About Privacy and Security

Connected devices may collect information about your routines, home occupancy, or energy consumption.

Review privacy settings, use strong passwords, and keep device software updated.

7. Replacing Efficient Equipment Just Because It Isn’t Smart

A newer smart appliance isn’t automatically more efficient than an older, well-maintained appliance.

Compare actual energy performance before upgrading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best smart home device for lowering an electricity bill?

For many households, a compatible smart thermostat is a strong starting point because heating and cooling can represent a large share of energy use. However, the best device depends on your HVAC system, climate, and existing habits.

Do smart plugs really save electricity?

Smart plugs can help reduce electricity use when they switch compatible devices off during periods when those devices would otherwise consume power. The savings depend on the connected appliance and how much unnecessary usage is avoided.

Are smart bulbs more energy-efficient than regular LED bulbs?

Not necessarily. Both may use similar amounts of electricity when producing the same amount of light. Smart bulbs offer additional features such as scheduling, remote control, and dimming.

Can smart home devices reduce energy use when I’m away?

Yes. Smart thermostats, lighting systems, and compatible smart plugs can automate selected devices while you’re away. The potential benefit depends on what the device controls.

Are smart thermostats worth the money?

They may be worthwhile if you regularly heat or cool your home and can benefit from automatic temperature adjustments. Check compatibility, purchase price, and available rebates.

Do smart home devices work without Wi-Fi?

It depends on the product. Some devices retain schedules or basic functionality without an internet connection, while others rely on cloud services. Check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Can different smart home devices work together?

Many devices can communicate through compatible smart-home platforms. However, compatibility varies, so confirm that your products support the same ecosystem or automation standard.

Should I buy an energy monitor before buying smart plugs?

If you don’t know where your electricity is going, an energy monitor may help you identify the biggest sources of consumption. You can then choose smart plugs or other devices based on actual needs.

Can smart irrigation controllers reduce water bills?

They may help reduce unnecessary outdoor watering, particularly when a traditional timer continues watering during rain or cooler conditions. Actual savings depend on your landscape and local water rates.

Do I need Amazon Alexa or Google Home to use smart devices?

No. Many smart devices can be controlled through their manufacturer’s smartphone app. A voice assistant or central smart-home platform is optional for many products.

Final Thoughts: Start Small and Make Your Smart Home More Efficient

he best smart home devices aren’t necessarily the most expensive or feature-packed products. They’re the ones that help you solve a real problem.

Whether you’re looking for a smart thermostat, an energy-monitoring plug, or an affordable lighting upgrade, start by identifying where your home uses the most energy.

For more practical ideas, explore the Smart Home Gadgets category on SmartDealFinds. You can also browse our guide to reducing your electric bill for additional energy-saving strategies.

With the right choices and consistent habits, smart home technology can help you manage energy use, improve convenience, and make your home more comfortable.

Affiliate Disclosure

SmartDealFinds may earn a commission when you purchase products through affiliate links on this website, at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are intended to help readers make informed purchasing decisions. Product features, availability, and prices may change, so verify details before buying.

Helpful Resources

For readers who want to learn more about energy efficiency:

• ENERGY STAR — Smart Thermostats
• ENERGY STAR — Energy-Efficient Products
• U.S. Department of Energy — Plug Load Management
• EPA WaterSense — Weather-Based Irrigation Controllers