Best Smart Home Devices for Energy Savings 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: June 3rd, 2024

💡Let's face it, saving energy is more important now than ever. Luckily, there are some awesome smart home devices out there that don't just make life more convenient, but also help you cut down on those pesky energy bills. You know, stuff like smart thermostats that learn your routine or lighting systems you can control from your phone.

I went through tons of reviews and expert opinions to bring you the best smart home gadgets for energy savings in 2024. Here’s the scoop.

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Overall Best: Nest Learning Thermostat

Google Nest Learning Thermostat - Programmable Smart Thermostat for Home - 3rd Generation Nest Thermostat - Works with Alexa - Stainless Steel

The Nest Learning Thermostat earns our top spot for overall best smart home device for energy savings. This intelligent thermostat learns your temperature preferences in just a week and then adjusts automatically to maximize comfort and efficiency. It uses sensors to detect your presence, ensuring that energy isn't wasted heating or cooling empty rooms. Additionally, the Nest app provides detailed insights into your energy usage, so you can make informed decisions to optimize further. The thermostat is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, making it a versatile addition to any smart home. Not only does it lower energy consumption, but it also simplifies managing your home's climate.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$150.00 at Amazon

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Runner-up: ecobee3 lite Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat

ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant - Energy Star Certified - DIY Install, Black

The ecobee3 lite Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat is a fantastic runner-up. It offers up to 23% in annual energy savings by using room sensors to ensure balanced heating and cooling, even in multi-level homes. This thermostat integrates seamlessly with various smart home ecosystems such as Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings. You can control it remotely through the ecobee app, making it easy to adjust settings from anywhere. The combination of efficiency, compatibility, and easy remote control makes the ecobee3 lite a solid choice for those looking to enhance their energy savings.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$125.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Belkin Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Outdoor Plug

Wemo Smart Plug with Thread - Smart Outlet for Apple HomeKit - Smart Home Products, Smart Home Lighting, Smart Home Gadgets - Homekit Smart Plug - Works W/ Apple iPhone, Easy NFC Set Up, White 1-pack w/ Thread (New) Smart Plug

For those on a budget, the Belkin Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Outdoor Plug is a stellar option. Despite its affordability, it allows you to manage your outdoor lighting and energy use efficiently. The plug has two weather-resistant outlets that can be controlled and scheduled independently, ensuring you never waste energy on unnecessary lighting. It integrates smoothly with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, providing hands-free control. This smart plug is an inexpensive way to start saving on your energy bills while enjoying modern conveniences.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$27.49 at Amazon

Best for Lighting: Philips Hue Smart Lights

Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube, Black - White and Color Ambiance LED Color-Changing Light - 1 Pack - Sync with TV, Music, and Gaming - Requires Bridge and Sync Box - Control with App or Voice Large Tube Black

The Philips Hue Smart Lights are a perfect choice for those focusing on lighting. These LED bulbs are approximately 90% more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. With the Philips Hue app or through voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant, you can set schedules, adjust brightness, and even choose from 16 million colors. Utilizing motion sensors and location data, the lights can automatically turn off when you leave the room, further minimizing energy use. These features combine to make Philips Hue Smart Lights a superior option for those looking to save energy on home lighting.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$210.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Philips Hue Smart Light Tube? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How do you mount the Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube?
Mounting the Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube isn't too complicated, and with a little guidance, you'll get it set up in no time. First, make sure you've got everything you need, including the [Hue Bridge](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhue%2Bbridge%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is needed for all the smart features. The manufacturer's product description says it’s made for easy installation. Pick a spot where you want to mount the light tube. You can mount it either horizontally or vertically, depending on the look you're aiming for. The package comes with mounting brackets, so you won't need to buy anything extra. Here’s how to get it mounted: 1. **Position and Secure the Brackets**: Decide where you want the light and mark where the brackets will go. Use a level to make sure they're straight, then secure them with the provided screws. 2. **Attach the Light Tube**: Once the brackets are firm, snap the light tube into place. Make sure it’s in there snugly to avoid any wobbling. 3. **Connect to Power**: Plug the light tube into a nearby outlet. Just a heads up from our research—handle the power connector carefully, as some have mentioned it's a bit delicate. 4. **Set Up the Hue Bridge**: Connect the Hue Bridge to your router, then fire up the Philips Hue app on your smartphone to connect the light tube to your network. The app guides you through adding the new light. If you're planning on using any dynamic lighting effects with your media, you'll want to make sure you've got a [Philips Hue Sync Box](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dphilips%2Bhue%2Bsync%2Bbox%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and have it all set up. 5. **Ensure Proper Connectivity and Updates**: Some folks have had connectivity issues, which can usually be fixed by checking that everything’s set up right, updating the firmware, and double-checking the app settings. If you run into problems like flickering or connection issues, recheck all the connections and steps. Sometimes, these hiccups are due to outdated firmware, so look for updates. If things still aren’t working, it might be a hardware problem, so reaching out to Philips support could be necessary. They generally offer a two-year warranty on their stuff. Making sure your Light Tube is mounted properly and everything’s connected well can really improve your lighting experience. These steps should help you get your Philips Hue Light Tube set up without a hassle!
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Does the Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube require a Hue Bridge and Sync Box?
If you're thinking about getting the Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube and want to sync it with your TV, music, or gaming setup, you'll need both the [Philips Hue Bridge](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DPhilips%2BHue%2BBridge%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and a [Sync Box](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSync%2BBox%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). These gadgets are key for getting that real-time light magic that can turn your room into a good extension of what's happening on the screen. The manufacturer mentions that you'll have to buy the Hue Bridge and Sync Box separately. The Bridge is like the central hub connecting all your smart lights to your home network, which lets you control them in real time. The Sync Box, on the other hand, handles syncing the lights with whatever content you're watching on your TV or other devices. That said, if you're mostly using it with a PC, there's a bit of a workaround. According to what we've found out, you can use the Hue Sync app instead of getting a Sync Box. This app lets your light tube dance in tune with the media on your PC, which can make gaming and streaming even more fun. While the Sync Box isn't a must for everyone, it does make everything work more smoothly, especially in setups where a big TV is the main attraction. It's particularly handy if you want the lights to match and react to whatever's happening on your big screen. Besides syncing, the Philips Hue Light Tube has millions of colors to choose from and can be controlled with smart home assistants like [Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DAlexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Google Assistant](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGoogle%2BAssistant%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), once you have everything set up with the right tech. This makes changing the lighting mode as easy as giving a voice command. So, to get the most out of the Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube, you'll want the Hue Bridge and ideally the Sync Box, unless you're mainly using it on a PC, in which case the Hue Sync app should do the trick.
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How bright is the Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube?
The Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube is pretty versatile when it comes to brightening up your space. What's cool about it is how you can control it with your voice, which is super handy in a modern home. The manufacturer's product description mentions that once you've got it set up through the Hue app, you'll be able to manage it using easy voice commands. It works with both [Amazon Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Damazon%2Balexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Google Assistant](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgoogle%2Bassistant%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), so you can control the lights without lifting a finger. But here's the thing—you'll need a [Hue Bridge](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhue%2Bbridge%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to get the full voice control experience. This bridge, which you have to buy separately, is like the brain that connects your lights to your smart home setups and the Hue app. Without it, some of the smart features and automation won't be available. Our research found that a lot of folks really like being able to change settings and create different vibes just by talking to their lights. You can do more than just switch them on or off. You can tweak the brightness, switch up the colors, or even set timers with your voice, which makes the whole setup pretty flexible and easy to use. Keep in mind, though, that a reliable internet connection is key for those voice commands to work smoothly since they often depend on cloud services. So if your internet takes a hit, controlling the lights with your voice could become tricky. Overall, the Philips Hue Large Smart Light Tube offers some impressive customizability and brightness, especially if you like the idea of using voice commands. Just don't forget, to unlock all its features, that Hue Bridge is a must-have.

Best for Appliance Control: TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug

Kasa Smart Plug by TP-Link, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Echo, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, Remote Control, 15 Amp, UL Certified, 1-Pack(HS103) , WHITE Classic 1-Pack

The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug is ideal for transforming your everyday appliances into energy-efficient devices. This plug allows you to control appliances remotely, set schedules, and monitor energy consumption directly from the Kasa app. By reducing standby power usage, the plug helps conserve energy even when your appliances aren't in use. It is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for easy voice control. The ability to manage multiple devices simultaneously via the app makes this smart plug a versatile addition to any energy-conscious home.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$19.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Kasa Smart Plug Mini? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the Kasa Smart Plug HS103 have energy monitoring?
The [Kasa Smart Plug HS103](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07QK1XH5D%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) by [TP-Link](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtp-link%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) is pretty handy with its remote control, scheduling, and voice command abilities. It works well with [Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dalexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Google Home](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgoogle%2Bhome%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and the [Kasa Smart app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dkasa%2Bsmart%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). But, keep in mind that it **does not have energy monitoring**. If tracking energy usage is a must-have for you, you'll need to consider other options. Setting it up is quite easy. According to the manufacturer, you just need the Kasa Smart app. Once connected to your Wi-Fi, you can manage your devices without much hassle. However, our research shows that while many people find the setup simple, some folks have run into connection and app issues. For example, some have had the smart plug drop its Wi-Fi connection or need a bit of troubleshooting. The scheduling feature is quite popular. You can set up on/off schedules in the app and even use [IFTTT](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Difttt%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for more complex automation. That said, we found that the app can sometimes be hit or miss with scheduling commands, which can be annoying. One more thing to note: it only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks. So, if you have a mixed or 5GHz network, you might face some connectivity problems. Overall, the Kasa Smart Plug HS103 is a good basic option if you don't need advanced features like energy monitoring. It handles basic tasks well and adds some convenience to your home setup.
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How compact is the Kasa Smart Plug HS103?
The Kasa Smart Plug HS103 from TP-Link is pretty small, making it a good pick if you're tight on space. According to the manufacturer, its compact design ensures it won't block nearby outlets, so you can use multiple plugs side by side without issues. This is handy for those tight spots like behind furniture or next to another plug. It’s designed to handle devices that use less than 15 amps, so it works well with things like lamps, fans, and small appliances like [coffee makers](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcoffee%2Bmakers%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). You’ll be able to control these devices from your phone or with voice commands via [Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dalexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Google Assistant](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgoogle%2Bassistant%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Setting it up seems to be straightforward. You just plug it in, download the [Kasa app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dkasa%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and follow the instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi. Keep in mind it only works with a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band, so that might be a limitation if you prefer 5GHz. According to our research, connectivity is generally solid, though a few people have mentioned occasional issues with delays, especially when using [Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dalexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). But this doesn't seem to be a common problem. A lot of folks like the scheduling feature, which lets you set timers so devices can turn on and off automatically. This is really useful for things like lights and [coffee makers](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcoffee%2Bmakers%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Plus, you can even randomize your lights when you're not home to make it look like someone is there. Overall, it’s a good starting point if you're new to smart home gadgets. It’s compact and versatile, and most people think it works well.

Best for Water Conservation: Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller

Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller (Simple Automated Scheduling + Local Weather Intelligence. Save Water w/ Rain, Freeze & Wind Skip), App Enabled, Works w/ Alexa, Fast & Easy Install 08 Zone Controller

The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller is excellent for both water and energy conservation. Using local weather data, it generates customized watering schedules designed to provide your garden with optimal hydration while preventing water waste. The accompanying app offers real-time updates on water usage and savings, allowing you to make better-informed decisions. Compatible with various smart home ecosystems, the Rachio 3 adds an extra layer of convenience for homeowners committed to saving water and energy. This sprinkler controller is a smart investment for maintaining both your garden and your utility bills.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$159.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 8 Zone? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How much water/money can you save with the Rachio 3?
The Rachio 3 is pretty cool because it can help you save both water and money. According to the manufacturer, it can cut your outdoor water use by about 30-50%, thanks to its smart weather-based watering schedules. It adjusts how much water your yard gets based on local weather, the season, and your specific lawn's needs, so you’re not wasting water or cash by overwatering. Our research backs this up—many people noticed their water bills went down after they started using it. The real game-changer is its smart scheduling and skip features. The [Weather Intelligence Plus](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DWeather%2BIntelligence%2BPlus%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) feature will automatically skip watering if it’s raining, too windy, freezing, or if the ground is already saturated. This means you won’t be watering your lawn when it doesn’t need it. According to some folks, they saved thousands of gallons in just one season, which meant serious savings on their water bills. Money-wise, the Rachio 3 saves you by slashing your water usage, which is especially great if you live somewhere with pricey water bills or during dry seasons. People have mentioned seeing significant savings just in the first few months. Plus, some areas give rebates for installing smart irrigation controllers, so that can help cover the initial cost. In short, the Rachio 3 can be a smart pick if you’re looking to save water and money. Its intelligent features tweak your watering schedule to prevent waste, cut your bills, and might even get you a rebate. Whether you’re all about conserving water or just want to save some cash, it’s worth considering.
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What are common issues with WiFi connectivity for the Rachio 3?
Hey there! So, the Rachio 3 is a great smart sprinkler controller, but like any WiFi device, it can sometimes run into connectivity issues. Here are a few common problems people have and some tips to sort them out, based on our research and info from the manufacturer: 1. **WiFi Signal Strength:** If the WiFi signal is weak, that’s often the root of the problem. The manufacturer suggests placing your WiFi router as close to **Rachio 3** as possible. If that's not doable, you might need a [WiFi extender](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DWiFi%2Bextender%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to boost the signal. 2. **Network Compatibility:** The Rachio 3 only works with 2.4 GHz WiFi networks. If your router is set to 5 GHz, the controller won’t connect. Make sure your router is set to support 2.4 GHz. 3. **Firmware Updates:** Sometimes, missing or outdated firmware can cause issues. The manufacturer regularly releases updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Check for the latest firmware updates and install them if needed. 4. **Router Settings:** Some router settings can mess with the Rachio 3’s connection. For example, using WPA3 encryption might cause issues since the Rachio 3 supports WPA2. Also, make sure your router's firewall isn’t blocking the controller. 5. **Interference:** Other electronic devices like microwaves, cordless phones, or even thick walls can interfere with the WiFi signal. Try to minimize obstacles between your router and the Rachio 3. 6. **App Integration Issues:** Sometimes, the issue might be with the mobile app. Make sure you have the latest version of the [Rachio app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DRachio%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) installed. Restarting the app or your phone can also help. 7. **Power Cycles:** Sometimes, just turning the Rachio 3 and your router off and on again can fix things. According to our research, lots of folks have managed to sort out their connectivity issues using these tips. If you're still having trouble, you might want to reach out to Rachio’s customer support for more detailed help. They can guide you through advanced troubleshooting steps specific to your setup. So yeah, while WiFi problems can be annoying, they’re usually fixable with a few tweaks here and there. Hope this helps and your Rachio 3 works smoothly!
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How does the Rachio 3 adjust watering based on weather?
The Rachio 3 is all about smart, weather-savvy watering for your lawn. It adjusts your watering schedule based on the current weather conditions, making sure your lawn gets exactly what it needs without any waste. Here's a bit more on how it works and some tips if you're on a mesh network. ### Weather-Based Adjustments Rachio 3 uses really local weather data from over 300,000 personal weather stations and various weather services to tweak your watering schedule in real-time. According to the manufacturer's product description, it checks the weather forecast and soil moisture levels to decide when to water and how much. So if rain’s on the way, it’ll hold off watering. If it’s hotter or cooler than usual, it adjusts accordingly. ### Wi-Fi and Mesh Network Compatibility We’ve found that Rachio 3 works with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks, which most mesh systems support. But according to our research, folks sometimes run into hiccups when setting it up on a mesh network because these systems often merge the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands into one SSID. For example, someone had trouble connecting their Rachio 3 to a [Netgear Orbi](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DNetgear%2BOrbi%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) mesh network (which combines both bands under one SSID). They got it working by temporarily switching their phone to a 2.4GHz network and using an Android device. Another person had no issues using their [Google Nest](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGoogle%2BNest%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) mesh network. ### Tips for a Smooth Setup To smooth things out, try these tips: 1. **Connect to 2.4GHz Network:** Make sure your phone is on a 2.4GHz network during setup. You might need to temporarily split your 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands into separate SSIDs. 2. **Temporary SSID:** If setup’s still a hassle, create a temporary 2.4GHz SSID just for setup, then switch back to your main network afterward. 3. **Customer Support:** If you get stuck, reaching out to Rachio’s customer support can help. We've seen mixed reports on their response times, but it's worth a shot. Following these steps can help you get your Rachio 3 set up without too much fuss. Once it’s up and running, you’ll love how it keeps your lawn looking great by adjusting the watering schedule based on the weather.
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