Monitoring Power Usage: A Comprehensive Guide To Energy Efficiency

Monitoring power usage is an effective way to reduce household costs and save money. There are many different energy monitors on the market, from smart meters installed by power companies to single-appliance energy monitoring devices. Some of the most popular electricity usage monitors include the P3 International Kill A Watt EZ Electricity Usage Monitor, the Eyedro Home Electricity Monitor, and the Sense Energy Monitor. These devices can help you identify which appliances are using the most power and make more informed decisions about your energy consumption. In addition to electricity usage monitors, there are also smartphone apps available that can help you track your energy usage and calculate the cost of your energy consumption.

Monitor individual appliances

Monitoring individual appliances can help you identify specific issues with your energy usage and determine if it's time to replace an appliance.

Calculating energy consumption

To calculate the energy consumption of an appliance, you need to know the number of hours it runs every day and its wattage. You can either roughly estimate the number of hours an appliance runs or keep a log to get a more accurate calculation. The wattage of an appliance is usually found on a sticker on the appliance's backside or bottom, or in the owner's manual.

Once you have the number of hours and the wattage, you can calculate the daily energy consumption using the following formula:

Wattage x Hours Used Per Day) / 1000 = Daily Kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption

For example, if you use a laptop with a wattage of 65 watts for eight hours a day, the calculation would be:

65 W x 8 hours) / 1000 = 0.52 kilowatt-hours/day

Using an electricity usage monitor

Another way to monitor individual appliances is by using an electricity usage monitor. These devices can measure the electricity usage of any device that runs on 120 volts. You can buy electricity usage monitors at most hardware stores for around $25-$50. To use a monitor, simply plug it into the electrical outlet, and then plug the device into the monitor. The monitor will display the number of watts the device is using.

Some monitors will also allow you to calculate the cost of running the device by entering the amount your utility charges per kilowatt-hour. These monitors are especially useful for finding the amount of kWh used over any period for devices that don't run constantly, like refrigerators.

Smart plugs

Smart plugs are another option for monitoring individual appliances. These plugs connect to your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and allow you to track the usage history of the appliance in kilowatt-hours. They also enable you to control the appliance remotely and set schedules. However, it's important to consider the security risks associated with internet-connected smart devices.

Stand-alone electricity monitors

If you prefer a non-connected option, stand-alone electricity monitors, such as the Fayleeko electricity monitor, are also available. These monitors allow you to plug in an appliance and see its real-time and cumulative power data, including current draw, voltage, frequency, power factor, and total cost of power used. Stand-alone monitors usually feature a large backlit screen, making it easier to read the data.

Whole-house energy monitoring systems

For a more comprehensive solution, you can install a whole-house energy monitoring system. These systems provide detailed data on your home's energy use and can measure the energy use of 240-volt appliances. They are typically installed directly in the main breaker panel of the home and may require an electrician for installation. While these systems can be more complex and expensive, they offer the advantage of measuring energy usage for built-in appliances, such as ovens or air conditioners.

Use a smart meter

Smart meters are a great way to monitor your power usage. They are power-monitoring devices that replace traditional electricity meters and provide you and your energy retailer with insights into your energy consumption. Here are some reasons why you should use a smart meter:

Accurate and Constant Data

Smart meters can measure energy usage in 30-minute intervals, providing accurate and constant data on how you use energy in your home. This data is sent to your energy provider to measure the amount of electricity you use.

Solar Power Systems

Smart meters allow you to take advantage of solar power systems, solar feed-in tariffs, and solar battery storage options. This is especially useful if you have solar panels installed in your home.

Remote Control

With a smart meter, you can remotely turn your electricity supply on or off. This is useful when you're away from home or need to manage your energy usage.

Power Quality

Smart meters can measure the power quality at your home, ensuring that you have a stable and reliable power supply.

Actual Meter Reads

Smart meters enable actual meter reads each billing cycle, so you pay for your exact usage instead of estimates. This helps you better manage your energy costs.

Notifications and Alerts

Smart meters can notify distributors (companies responsible for power lines and electricity poles) of power cuts and other issues. They can also send you alerts for excessive energy usage, helping you stay within your budget.

Connect Smart Devices

You can use your smart meter to connect and control smart devices in your home. For example, you can remotely power smart devices and set timers so that they only operate when needed, helping you lower your energy use.

Moving Made Easier

Smart meters can remotely perform connections and disconnections when you move to a new home, making the process quicker, easier, and cheaper. They can also reduce disconnection and reconnection fees.

In-Home Displays and Apps

Smart meters often come with in-home displays, mobile phone apps, or web portals that allow you to access your energy usage data easily. This helps you understand your energy usage patterns and make informed decisions to reduce electricity usage and save money.

Install a home monitoring system

Home energy monitors are a great way to identify and correct energy inefficiencies and save money on your electric bill. They can help you understand your energy usage, and some can even calculate solar system energy production.

There are two main types of home energy monitors: smart plugs and whole-house power monitors.

Smart Plugs

Smart plugs are a good option if you want to monitor energy usage for individual outlets or appliances. They are easy to use – simply plug the smart plug into a wall socket, and then plug your appliance into the smart plug. You can then link the smart plug to your home's Wi-Fi to see how much energy the device is using. Smart plugs are best suited for smaller appliances, such as a blender or hair straightener, rather than larger appliances like laundry machines.

Some smart plugs have apps that allow you to remotely turn appliances on or off, set up timers or schedules, and monitor energy use. They can also be integrated with virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control.

Examples of smart plugs include:

• TOPGREENER Smart Outlet with Energy Monitoring
• BN-LINK WiFi Heavy Duty Smart Plug Outlet
• Wemo – Insight Switch
• Eufy - Smart Plug
• P3 Kill A Watt EZ

Whole-House Power Monitors

Whole-house power monitors provide a more detailed account of energy use throughout your home. They have sensors that connect to your home's electrical panel or meter and track the performance and power consumption of each appliance based on its connection to an individual circuit. The sensors gather information, and the monitor analyzes the data and transmits insights or notifications to your phone or computer.

Some whole-house power monitors include:

• Sense Energy Monitor
• EMPORIA ENERGY Gen 2 Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor
• Eyedro Home Energy Monitor
• TED Pro
• CrocSee CRS-022A

When choosing a home energy monitor, consider your individual needs and preferences. If you just want to monitor energy usage for a few specific appliances or outlets, a smart plug is a good option. If you want a more detailed account of energy use throughout your home, a whole-house power monitor is a better choice.

Additionally, consider features such as solar system compatibility, appliance recognition, real-time cost tracking, smart-home compatibility, and mobile apps and notifications.

Try smart plugs

Smart plugs are a great way to monitor your power usage and control your devices from anywhere. They are easy to set up and don't require a hub, making them a simple and convenient option for anyone looking to get started with home automation.

One of the main benefits of smart plugs is the ability to track your energy usage and identify "energy vampires" that draw more power than expected while on standby. This can help you get a handle on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Many smart plugs also offer features such as overload protection and the ability to set timers and automate your devices.

When choosing a smart plug, consider the number of outlets you need and whether you want a plug-in option or one that replaces your current power outlet. Some smart plugs also offer voice control compatibility with AI assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.

• Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4: This compact smart plug helps you monitor energy usage and can be controlled via the Alexa app.
• Amazon Smart Plug: This plug works exclusively with Alexa and is easy to set up, supporting up to 15A.
• Govee Dual Smart Plug: This option expands your outlet from one to two, with independently controlled smart outlets that can be manually controlled or automated.
• POWSAV Smart Power Strip Surge Protector: This power strip offers four always-on outlets, four smart outlets, and four USB ports, making it ideal for entertainment centers.
• TP-Link Tapo Wi-Fi Smart Plug: This smart plug offers energy monitoring and is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings.
• Emporia Gen 3 Smart Home Energy Monitor: This option comes with 16 50A circuit-level sensors and provides real-time electricity monitoring and metering.

These are just a few examples of the many smart plugs available on the market. Be sure to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Use a smart app

Using a smart app is a convenient way to monitor your power usage. There are many apps available to help you track your energy consumption and save money on your bills.

Energy Provider Apps

Energy providers such as AGL, Origin, Powershop, and EnergyAustralia offer apps that allow you to monitor your energy usage. These apps often provide detailed usage reports, notifications about usage spikes, and the ability to track solar activity and power usage. Some apps even allow you to pre-purchase power or earn rewards for completing energy-saving goals.

Third-Party Energy Management Apps

If your energy provider does not have an app, you can use third-party energy management apps. These include the Wiser Energy app, which provides detailed tracking and notifications about household electrical issues, and the Light Bulb Saver app, which helps you determine how much energy you could save by switching to more energy-efficient light bulbs.

Other Apps

There are also other apps that can help you track your energy usage and calculate costs, such as Green Outlet, Energy Cost Calculator, and Smappee. These apps may require you to attach sensors to your fuse box or individual appliances to monitor energy usage.

Sense App

The Sense app, available for iOS and Android, helps you monitor your home energy usage and offers personalized insights to reduce your carbon footprint and save money. It provides real-time data on your overall energy use and identifies specific appliances by recognizing their unique electrical signatures.

By using a smart app, you can gain valuable insights into your power usage, make informed decisions, and take control of your energy consumption.

Frequently asked questions