Can Home Automation Make My Home Greener?

When you think of ways that you can help the environment, what pops into your head first? Perhaps it is being a stellar recycling and composting citizen. Perhaps it is driving a fuel-efficient car, or your commitment to using only non-toxic and organic cleaning products in the home. While all of these interventions are important strategies in the fight for a greener planet, have you ever wanted to do more? If yes, home automation may be the next step for you on your journey to a greener and more eco-friendly lifestyle.

If home automation conjures up visions of the jet-set drinking champagne in a steel and glass-enclosed penthouse, think again: Advances in technology and increased consumer demand for smart and efficient home automation technologies means that a smart home is now within reach for more consumers than ever before. What’s more, as home automation systems have become smaller and more popular, they have also become easier to install. Gone are the days when home automation required a squadron of technical experts to essentially remodel your house. Nowadays, installation can be done by an experienced professional in an afternoon (or even by you!).

An automated home is more comfortable, more intuitive, and if done thoughtfully and with intention, even greener. Here, four home automation technologies that will help you save the earth and even save some money along the way.

1. Programmable Thermostats

Despite your best intentions, how often have you found yourself in the following predicament: I really shouldn’t leave the air conditioning on while I’m out...but it’s like an oven in here without it. Did I actually turn the heat off before I left for work?

Heating and cooling costs typically account for the priciest monthly bills when it comes to running your home and yet many of us struggle to balance the comfort that we have become accustomed to with the behaviors that will allow us to become more energy efficient. This includes not heating and cooling our spaces when we aren’t there.

Enter the programmable thermostat. These smart little devices allow you to control your thermostat remotely from your computer or smart device. Forget to turn the heat off before work? No problem -- simply switch your heat or air conditioner off remotely and you’ll stop wasting money and energy. Another useful strategy is to program your thermostat to turn on and off at a certain time. Your smart thermostat can have your home at a toasty 70 degrees when you return home on a cool winter night...and if programmed, it may only need to have been on for 30 minutes prior to your arrival.

2. Motion detectors

Motion detectors, traditionally the enemy of cat burglars everywhere, have a new application in today’s smart and energy efficient homes: modern motion sensors go further than simply turning the light on to let you know that the paperboy is outside. These motion sensors are designed with energy efficiency and cost savings in mind. They allow you to control the lights and appliances in your home by sensing when it’s time to turn off. Simply program the lights or the television or the stereo to shut off when no one has been in the room for 10, 15, or the length of time of your choice. This cuts down on energy use over time and cumulatively, this can add up to a big reduction.

3. Solar-Powered Technologies

Whether you have been thinking about investing in solar panels for the exterior of your house, or are simply looking for an energy-saving way to light the walkway, the benefits of solar-powered solutions are numerous. Harnessing the power of the sun means you are investing in a renewable energy source that is clean and low-cost.

A good place to start investigating solar technologies? Invest in some thoughtfully designed solar lights to line your driveway or spotlight your back deck. (You’ll receive double Green Points if you also attach a motion sensor or timer to your solar devices!) Then, if you enjoy your solar technology, you may be ready to start researching solar panels.

Many homeowners balk at the upfront costs of installing solar panels on their home. And it can be costly, so small intermediary steps like solar lighting are a good stopping point for some. However, you may be interested to learn that a home powered by solar is likely to save you 20%-30% in energy costs each year. Add to that the profits you’ll realize from the energy buyback programs that many counties have, and you can easily expect to recoup your upfront investment within just a few years, all while making a real difference in energy consumption.

4. Motorized Blinds and Shades

Perhaps you’ve stayed in a hotel or resort that came equipped with motorized blinds or shades. If so, you know how convenient it is to be able to control the lighting and view in your room with just the touch of a button. But, did you know that motorized window treatments can also be part of your green home solution?

Motorized blinds and shades allow you to work with the heat of the day rather than against it and mean that you don’t have to sacrifice your view to keep your home comfortable. To top it all off, you’ll cut down on your energy consumption as well.

In the winter, program your motorized blinds or shades to open during the sunniest time of the day. Your house will warm up naturally, without the need for your heater. When the position of the sun no longer warms your house, close the blinds to hold in heat and for privacy. The same holds true in the summer -- enjoy your view during the shady part of the day, and close your blinds when the sun is facing your house. You’ll stay cool and your energy costs will drop! Your house will be working smarter, not harder, and that is something that everyone can appreciate.

However, it’s important to note that even though motorized window treatments are an important component of a green home, it matters that you select the right window treatments that will solve the problem specific to your space. The solar shade that works well in a Palm Springs ranch house will not necessarily be the right eco-solution for the ski chalet in Colorado. Before you invest in motorized window treatments, make sure you understand what you want out of them. Do you require heating, cooling, light-blocking, privacy, shade in an outdoor area, or all of the above? There is a motorized window treatment solution that will work for every window, and your window treatment expert can certainly point you in the right direction.

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Home automation has come a long way in the past two decades. Gone are the days of home automation as conspicuous consumption. Instead, home automation can allow you to consciously consume less energy in a way that still allows you to enjoy all of the comforts of home. After all, they don’t call it smart technology for nothing!

Get started on creating your smart home today by connecting with a Somfy dealer!