Technology has come a long way – and it continues to become more advanced each day. Newer appliances and electronics seem to be “smarter” than previous versions, offering convenience, increased control and enhanced energy efficiency. And most of this technology can be simple additions to your own home.

Smart technology is made to work for your unique needs. By personalizing settings, tracking insights and metrics and funneling controls to a smart phone, your home can help support your daily routine. When it comes to cost and energy-savings, smart technology can have an impact, such as through these devices:

Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat will automatically adjust your home’s temperature setting to save energy while maintaining comfort. What gives it an advantage is the ability to learn habits and temperature preferences of your home and adjust accordingly. When the house is empty, the device can adjust the temperature setting to differ from times where there is more activity. I&M customers owning a smart meter can also enroll in our Power Rewards Smart Thermostat program. By decreasing energy when demand is high, participants can earn bill credits and $25 for signing up.

Smart Meter 

Energy use varies from home to home, but do you know how much your home uses? Smart meters track daily energy use and can alert a homeowner when and where high usage happens. Having this heads up can allow for corrective actions. This technology also provides notifications when bills may be higher than normal, which can help in managing a monthly budget. I&M customers completing a home energy profile will also receive energy efficiency tips specific to their home. Through this information, customers can incorporate simple practices for future savings.

Smart Power Strip

Beyond offering additional outlets, a smart power strip offers safety and savings. This device can monitor energy use, automate power to connected devices and protect electronics from damage caused by power surges. Its additional energy-saving abilities can put devices in stand-by mode, preventing energy waste, and identify devices consuming excess power. A full list of smart power strips, as well as TVs, appliances and other items, is available on the Marketplace website.

Smart Appliances

More appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, washers and dryers are adding Wi-Fi connected smart features that offer cost and energy savings. With a smart refrigerator, for example, you can look inside without even opening the door, saving energy. Options like scheduling laundry or dishwasher settings during off-peak hours and controls through your smart phone offer added convenience.

Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) also uses its own smart technology to reliably power customers’ homes around the clock. This includes technology that can allow for enhanced restoration times and a better customer experience. Whether investing in new technology or planning for the future, learn more about how I&M is committed to improving the communities we serve at: IndianaMichiganPower.com/PoweringtheNext.