Go, go green gadgets

Go, go green gadgets

This St. Patrick’s Day, along with green food, beverages and attire, you can go green at home. There are so many gadgets on the market that can help you save electricity. I personally love finding tech toys that make saving energy easy, convenient and fun!

I’ve put together a short list of gadgets that are easy to find, easy to install and make saving energy a no-brainer.

Usage Monitor
Kill-A-Watt Electricity Usage Monitor

Did you ever wonder how much energy your gadgets use – or if they’re using energy even when not in use? All you need to do is plug this monitor into an outlet and plug your electronic device into it. You can measure its energy use and play detective to find out where you might be wasting energy and where you are using the most energy. Pretty cool! Uncover your own energy-saving opportunities or find out what Project Envolve families discovered about their energy use with the Kill-A-Watt monitor.

Smart Thermostat
Programmable or Smart Thermostats

Thermostats can control half of your home’s energy. Half! That’s a pretty big deal. A correctly programmed thermostat can save about 20 percent on your heating and cooling bill, according to nest.com. These thermostats give you total control. You can program the thermostat to avoid wasting energy heating or cooling your home when you’re asleep or away. You can save about 1-3 percent per degree, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Learn what settings are recommended by the DOE.

Smart Strip
Smart Power Strips

Take your power strips to the next level. Smart strips work especially well for entertainment centers. No more gaming systems and accessories drawing phantom power 24/7. Smart power strips will automatically turn your DVD player, game system and other peripherals off when you shut off the television. And you have the ability to always power the DVR. If you have a regular power strip, simply turn the power strip off to turn off all the devices at the same time. Devices left on are wasting energy and your money.

LED Light Bulb
LED Light Bulbs

Replace your light bulbs with LEDs. They use up to 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 20 times longer. And because they produce light without producing much extra heat, they’re cooler than traditional incandescent bulbs. Through our E-power programs, customers can receive instant in-store discounts on select ENERGY STAR LEDs. Find a participating retailer near you.

Slow Cooker
Slow Cooker or Microwave

Switch up how you cook and spruce up your recipe repertoire. By using smaller, more efficient appliances like slow cookers and microwaves, you can use less electricity for food preparation. Plus you’ll save time, too. These appliances are very versatile and have the ability to make appetizers, entrees and even desserts.

Occupancy Sensors

If you tend to forget to turn the lights off, consider installing occupancy sensors. They’ll automatically turn the lights on when you enter the room and off when it’s empty. They’re great for the powder room or laundry room.

Solar Lights
Solar Exterior Lights

Spring and summer are right around the corner. You can find all sorts of walkway lights and decorative lights to highlight your landscape. 

Energy Star Appliances
ENERGY STAR

Are you in the market for any new appliances or electronics? Buy ENERGY STAR. You’ll save energy for years to come.

Going green around the house St. Patrick’s Day is easy thanks to these energy-saving gadgets and electronics. How are you going green?