Tip
Smart home: what's actually worth buying
Smart thermostat — the highest ROI smart device
$120-$250 device, typical $50-$150 utility rebate. Saves 8-15% on HVAC energy through better scheduling and learning algorithms. ROI under 2 years in most homes. Worth it.
Smart leak detectors
$30-$80 sensors that alarm at the first sign of water in basement, under sinks, near water heaters. Won't save energy but prevents catastrophic damage. Some homeowner's insurance discounts apply.
Occupancy sensors for lighting
Worth it for hallways, closets, garages, basements, bathrooms — places lights are commonly left on. $15-$40 per switch. ROI 2-4 years.
Smart water heater controllers
Modulates heating cycles based on demand patterns. Most useful for tank water heaters with poorly insulated tanks. Heat pump water heaters already have smart controls built in.
Smart power strips
$15-$30. Kills phantom loads when primary device (TV) goes off. Worth it for entertainment centers, computer setups, and home offices.
Probably not worth it
- Smart bulbs everywhere — overkill; smart switches do the same job for less money
- Smart plugs everywhere — useful for a couple specific cases, but a $5 timer often does the same thing
- Smart blinds — expensive ($150-$400 each), unclear energy ROI
- Smart dishwashers, washers, dryers — pay for ENERGY STAR efficiency, not the WiFi