Energy monitoring systems can monitor a variety of things, like electricity consumption, water consumption, solar electricity production, room temperatures, and thermostat setpoints.
Many new Apps are now entering the market that can analyze the monitored data to show you how and when you use energy.
Electricity monitoring devices are the most common. Simple monitors are available that track the electricity used from one plug. Others include a clamp that is attached to your electricity meter or mains to monitor electricity consumed in an entire house, or via your electrical panel’s circuits.
Because there are so many different types of energy monitoring systems available, look for a system that will work for your needs. Some things to think about are:
- What do you want to monitor (electricity, water, solar energy, etc.)?
- How often do you want to take a measurement (frequency)? As an example, if you want to know how much electricity your toaster uses and it runs for 1 minute at a time, you will want to take a few measurements per minute.
- How accurate do you need the system to be? Highly accurate devices can come at a higher cost, and some systems are do-it-yourself while others require an electrician.
- What kind of app comes with the system? Some systems will automatically process and analyze the data to provide you with useful information. Also, how accessible is the app - some only run on mobile and not web, or vice-versa.
- Installation requirements are also something worth noting - the homeowner can install some monitors, and others require an electrician.
By showing you how much energy you use, energy monitoring systems can help you reduce your energy consumption. As well, they can help you make other, larger energy related decisions. For example, data collected from an energy monitoring system may help you decide between a solar hot water heating system or a solar photovoltaic system.
