Smart Home Gadgets That Pay for Themselves

Some gadgets actually save you money—while making life easier.

Smart thermostats.Devices like Nest or Ecobee learn your routine and adjust temps automatically. Energy savings often cover the cost within a year.

LED smart bulbs.Set schedules so lights turn off when you leave. Each bulb costs a few dollars more upfront but lasts for years and uses 75% less power.

Water-saving showerheads.Modern low-flow models feel just as strong but cut water bills by 20–30%.

Plugs and power strips.Wi-Fi plugs let you shut off vampire electronics from your phone. Goodbye phantom energy drain.

Track and tweak.Use a smart plug energy monitor to see what’s eating power. Knowing that the old TV costs $8 a month to keep on standby makes unplugging satisfying.

Smart tech doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated—it just needs to make your bills smaller and your life smoother.