Latest Home energy articles

Electricity bills can be a huge expense. Understanding your home energy usage can help you reduce consumption and lower your home energy costs.

How many watts of electricity does a TV use?

There are 2 reasons to know how many watts your TV uses: to calculate the cost on your power bill and to figure out how much battery storage you'll need to run it during an outage.

Written by Ana Almerini

How to automate your home with the ecobee SmartSensor

The ecobee SmartSensor can pair with a smart thermometer or security system to keep your home comfortable and safe. Find out the details from cost to warranty.

Written by Michael Cheng

What are peak and off-peak hours for electricity?

In Time of Use plans, utility companies split the day into both peak and off-peak electricity hours. Find out what this means and how you can benefit from off-peak electricity hours.

Written by Cameron Bates

Should you install fiber optic solar lights instead of solar panels?

Fiber optic solar lighting uses natural sunlight to illuminate homes and cuts energy costs. Should you consider installing these instead of solar panels?

Written by Michael Cheng

How many watts does a fridge use?

The typical home refrigerator uses 500 watts of electricity. In terms of energy usage, that translates to 1460 kilowatt-hours each year, meaning the average American household spends $207 a year powering their fridge.

Written by Oliver Sendy

How much does a tankless water heater cost?

Our comprehensive tankless water heater cost guide is here to aid you in deciding if one is right for your home

Written by Cameron Bates

The correct way to read your electricity bill

Learn what to look for on your electric bill and why those terms can help you be a more informed electric consumer.

Written by Ana Almerini

Can a home with solar panels use a generator?

Can you use a generator if you have solar panels and the power goes out? Read on to find out!

Written by Catherine Lane