Electricity Saving Devices

Can purchasing electricity saving devices for your home and lifestyle save you money? Can they lower your carbon footprint; the impact you have on the environment?

Did you know that there are devices available that you can install to save electricity in your home? It isn't a matter of you having to remember to turn off a light or turn down a heater (although these are important things to do) but hooking this device up once and then reaping the benefits in a healthier environment and lower energy costs. These devices are known on the market as power savers.

Do they work?

How Power Savers Work

The power saver plugs into your electric socket. The appliance then plugs into the power saver. It operates under the principle that electricity is not stable. The voltage of electricity rises and falls creating spikes which can't be used by appliances and can even harm delicate computer technologies. Because the spikes aren't used by the appliances the electricity in them is wasted; naturally converted into heat and eventually damaging wiring and appliances.

Power savers store the electricity by utilizing a system of capacitors. The saved electricity is then released slowly completely removing spikes and energy loss. In other words, more usable electricity is available to your home. The systems remove carbon which also contributes to a cleaner and smoother flow.

Although the claims are made that you can save up to 40% on your electric bill with electricity saving devices the reality for most people is going to be much less.  The percentage saved depends on a variety of factors, including:

• The type of appliances you have.
• How unstable your electricity is.
• Your location.
• How much electricity you normally use.

The savings will also vary by the type of appliance that is plugged into the power saver. Here are some estimates for different appliances:

• Lights and small appliances -25%
• Air conditioning – 30%
• Refrigerators and washing machines 35%

Most consumers will find that they average about a 25% savings overall on their monthly bill. This means that if your electric bill is normally $100.00 it will be reduced to about $75.00. Some people have claimed as much as a 40% savings in their electricity bill.

Order from a company you trust. Read the guarantees and make sure that you understand the return policy. Ask plenty of questions! Many companies have a 60 day guarantee. This gives you time to use the electricity saving device and see if it is really something that is helpful to you.

There are more and more companies making these devices. All in all the power savers are not much different. Read the descriptions carefully and go with a company that you trust.

Wattsdog Power Saver 1200

The Wattsdog connects to your breaker box to act as a whole house surge protector and electricity saver. Because it smoothes out the spikes the life of your electrical equipment should be increased significantly.

The company claims most consumers will see a 10%-35% savings.

Power Saver Home

The Power Saver Home does not plug into your breaker box but into any outlet within 70 feet of the breaker box. It stabilizes voltage by storing energy for up to ten seconds. The company claims that you will save up to 35% on your energy bills every month.

But Do They Work?

Most experts say that the power savers are a scam and that they don't work because homes are not charged for the spikes, only for the usual voltage. Some consumers say that the devices work very well. Should you get one?

The truth is that the best way to save electricity is to turn something off, stop using so many appliances, and be informed about what you do use. While the power savers may or may not work there are other devices to help you save electricity.

Other Devices that Do Help

Kill A Watt Usage Monitor

The Kill A Watt Usage Monitor helps you save electricity by measuring the efficiency of your appliances. This will help you to know if it is really time to replace that old refrigerator. You can calculate your energy expenses on a daily basis and see where you are wasting money. This allows you to take proactive steps in electricity savings.

Home Energy Monitor

Home Energy Monitor works like the Kill A Watt but is for your whole home rather than just one appliance. You can see how much energy you are using in real time and figure out how to cut back. The kit is easy to install and comes with everything you need.

Some electric companies have consultants that will come out to your home and help you figure out how you can save more electricity. Just call and talk to a representative at your company to see if they offer this service. It is usually free.

Common sense should dictate energy savings. Obviously having a multitude of appliances running all the time is going to mean more electric usage. Try to keep TV watching and video game playing to a minimum. It is also important to replace old appliances. Technology has changed so much even in five years that the savings are significant.

Most of all just be aware of what you are using and what appliances you buy. The best way to save electricity is by choosing how much to use.