Monitoring your energy has never been so easy. With current technology, we can now make a game out of observing the amount of energy we consume through apps on our smartphones. Let’s face it, we are addicted to them anyway – we might as well be using them for good. I have compiled a list of my favorite apps that are not only fun to use, but will help you save money in the process.
Nestmobile
This free app is not for everyone as it only works with a Nest thermostat. Nestmobile allows you to not only monitor the consumption but you can also control the temperature from anywhere. Do you keep your air or heat off during the day to save money, but hate coming home to extreme temperatures? With Nestmobile you can change the temp on your way.
Green Outlet
This nifty little app allows you to identify which of your appliances are sucking you dry. Simply select the appliances you use and enter how frequently they are plugged in or turned on. From there Green Outlet will predict your monthly bill. This will help you to make educated decisions on how to cut your bill while saving the planet one outlet at a time. Green outlet will send you alerts when you exceed the “Recommended Carbon Usage.” What is that you ask? The government has come up with a number that we should all stay within in order to maintain a healthy environment. This number represents that. Green Outlet is available on iTunes for $.99, but really what is a dollar when in return you can save hundreds before years end?
GasBuddy
This app is free on iTunes and helps you to find the cheapest gas prices around. Not only can you save money but you can help others to do the same. Earn points by reporting gas prices to others on the network. As an extra bonus, GasBuddy also gives away $250 in gas to a lucky winner every single week. I have so much fun with this app, it’s like the “where’s Waldo” of gas stations.
Energy Tracker
This simple device is easy for everyone to use. By entering your daily measurements of energy use you will be able to see your trends when it comes to consumption. Energy Tracker will help you to make better decisions when it comes to unnecessary usage. Knowing where your energy is being used will help you to find the appropriate savings tips and rate plans via http://www.newyorkenergyrates.com/. For example, if you find that the majority of your energy comes from your outlets, New York Energy Rates would tell you to use power strips to charge your devices.
Kill-Ur-Watts
This app is highly sophisticated but easy to use. Like a couple of the previously mentioned apps Kill-Ur-Watts will keep track of your energy consumption. Simply enter the required data. Unlike other apps this one will actually develop a strategy to help you save money. So essentially, aside from entering the data and carrying out the plan Kill-Ur-Watts does all the work for you. The added bonus is you can get this app for free on iTunes.
By using these apps you will have a better understanding of where your money is going and the carbon footprint you are leaving behind. With all the information provided these apps are not going to do the work for you. It is up to you to utilize them to the best of your abilities.
Photo Credit: Philippe 2009 via photopin cc
