I’ve been trying to figure out a reliable way to monitor my energy usage over longer periods, specifically for appliances like my washing machine, space heater, and on-demand water heater. My electric bill has been increasing, and I want to identify the biggest energy consumers in my home. While I’ve seen a lot of solutions for real-time monitoring, I’m looking for something that can track usage over a month and provide detailed insights.
I currently use a Samsung SmartThings plug, which gives me real-time data, but I need a way to collect and analyze this information over time. After some research, I came across a few options that might work. One approach is to use a plug that can be moved between different appliances and log the data manually or through an app. However, I’m not sure if the SmartThings plug is capable of long-term data storage or if I need a different device altogether.
I’ve also heard about using Node-RED to create custom dashboards and automate data logging. This could be a great solution, but I’m not very familiar with Node-RED yet. I’d love to hear from anyone who has experience setting up something similar or has recommendations for devices that are specifically designed for long-term energy monitoring.
Another idea I’ve explored is using Wiz Light smart plugs, which seem to offer better compatibility with home automation systems and have built-in energy monitoring features. They also integrate well with services like Google Home and Amazon Alexa, which I already use extensively. If anyone has successfully used Wiz Light plugs for tracking energy usage over extended periods, I’d appreciate any tips or insights!
In the meantime, I’m planning to test out a few different plugs and see which one works best for my needs. I’ll also look into setting up a simple Node-RED flow to log and visualize the data. Stay tuned for updates on how this goes!
Tips for Others:
- If you’re looking to track energy usage, start with one appliance and gradually expand to others.
- Consider using a plug that integrates with your existing smart home ecosystem for easier setup and monitoring.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with different tools and apps to find the combination that works best for you.