Top Apps to Monitor Energy Use
Many people are unaware that advanced smartphone apps can easily monitor energy use in their homes. These applications are remarkably easy to use and can significantly cut energy usage by identifying vampire energy sources, thereby helping you save money on your utility bills.
What to Look for in an Energy-Monitoring Tool
When determining which app is best to help monitor energy use for your home, we recommend considering these features:
- Appliance Identification – You want to make sure that energy-use apps correctly identify appliances so you can label them, know which ones are running and how much energy they use.
- Energy Use Tracking – Opt for apps that provide real-time tracking, which provides immediate feedback on which devices in the home are running and using power.
- Estimating Costs – Some apps will also help you calculate expenses based on usage, which is especially helpful when you’re considering replacing older appliances or adding smart plugs to the home to turn off devices when not in use.
Tools to Monitor Energy Use in the Lowcountry
- Dominion Energy – Tracks usage and offers bill projections.
- Berkeley Electric Cooperative's SmartHub – This app tracks your usage and provides outage alerts.
Advanced Whole-Home Energy-Monitoring
There are several apps that monitor energy use, providing real-time tracking to help you monitor electrical use and lower your utility bills. *Please note that some apps will require hardware to be installed in your home’s electrical panel, which will need to be performed by a licensed electrician. However, if you are in the process of building a home, guest house or home addition, now is a great time to request the electrician add this hardware. Additionally, if you’re looking for more eco-friendly, sustainable home energy saving tips, check out this article.
- Sense Home Energy Monitor – This app connects to a home energy monitor to provide real-time information on appliance energy consumption and waste.
- Emporia Energy – This app pairs with Emporia hardware, which provides real-time tracking of solar, circuits and overall energy use in the home.
How Does Your Home Wi-Fi Network Fit In?
If you're exploring smart devices or energy-monitoring tools, a strong, reliable home Wi-Fi network ensures they work smoothly. Home Telecom's MyWiFi Xtreme app helps you identify all your connected devices and keep your connected home running at its best. Learn more about how the MyWiFi Xtreme app helps you better manage your Smart Home ecosystem.
