How to Monitor Energy Usage in the Home

As our households become more dependent upon electricity to function properly, conserving energy from all sources in the home is essential. One important reason is to help the local energy supplier control peak demand loads at the power station. These peak periods usually occur when many people come home and begin to use heating and cooling systems, stoves, lighting, and other electric appliances.

In order to trim energy usage in the home, it may help to first educate the family members on which of the household appliances use the most electricity. Generally, any electrical device that creates heat uses the most electricity. Incandescent light bulbs are a good example of a needed source of illumination that develops more heat than light, therefore wasting more energy. Compact fluorescent lights (CFL's), provide the same or greater illumination at a fraction of the wattage of ordinary incandescent bulbs which saves both energy and reduces electrical utility bills.

A number of new energy measurement devices have become available to help monitor and control the electricity used in the home. One of these is the Power Monitor by Black & Decker. This is a two piece system that consists of a wireless sensor that attaches to the electric meter outside and a small digital display that is kept inside to relay the information from the meter reading. Local electric rates can be programmed in to accurately calculate the real time cost in dollars. These units work on most meters, but not all. Be sure to check with your local electrical utility for equipment compatibility.

More advanced energy management systems have wireless sensors on both electrical and gas appliances. The main control unit and display compiles the information so that the homeowner can program and control the amount of electricity use of each appliance. If there are problems or energy use alerts, the system can send out notifications by email or text message.

Some power companies are installing smart electric meters which allow two-way communication between the utility and the home meter. This connection can be used to lower peak demand by switching off a water heater or lowering the thermostat of the home when system-wide electric use is at its peak. In return, the power company typically compensates the homeowner by providing free maintenance or by adjusting electric rates.

Remember, always work safely.

Resources:

Black & Decker Power Monitor - www.blackanddecker.com/energy/
Energy Inc. - www.theenergydetective.com