How to choose and use smart bulbs
Smart technology is one of the best creations of this decade, allowing you to control almost every home device you own from your smartphone or tablet and potentially saving you a lot of hassle.
As technology continues to develop, aspects of our lives are becoming a lot more efficient. So, why not use tech to create a greener, more eco-friendly home?
We’ve rounded up some of the best and simplest ways that you can apply new technologies and gadgets in your home to reduce energy bills and lessen your impact on the environment.
Smart thermostats can be set to come on at certain points of the day. For example, when you’re at work or asleep, you don’t need every room to be a particularly high temperature, so you can save on energy at these times.
However, you may want to turn it up a bit for the first hour of the day, that way it’s nice toasty when you get out of bed.
Smart home technology is definitely a hot topic right now. A range of devices are available to install around the household, giving you the ability to control appliances, lighting and security systems from your mobile phone.
You have the power to switch off lights, lower the radiator setting and even turn off the straighteners that you accidentally left on this morning, no matter where you are in the world.
This tip is pretty simple, yet LED lights are known for using a lot less energy and lasting longer than more traditional, incandescent bulbs. By making this change, you’ll see your energy bills decrease and your eco-friendly brownie points double.
What’s more, many LED lights are now compatible with smart home systems, such as Nest and Hive.
In a similar way, when buying new appliances such as washing machines, tumble dryers, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers and hot water heaters, consider the models with better energy ratings.
Energy capabilities are usually clearly marked out when browsing online or in store. It’s a great way to use less power and shrink those pesky bills in the process.
Solar power isn’t new, but it is becoming more common for people to take the plunge and install sun-absorbing panels on rooftops and in gardens. The initial cost of these eco-friendly bad boys is quite high, yet in the long run you can save between 50% and 80% on your monthly energy statements.
A dual-flush toilet isn’t exactly the most glamorous of technologies; however, it certainly has a noticeable impact. You can make this water-savvy switch by upgrading your old porcelain to a newer model, and there’s no need to change the plumbing.
Next time nature calls, you have the option of a lighter flush that uses a lot less water.