Efficiency Manitoba Gift Guide
The holidays are upon us, and reaching the end of your festive to-do list might feel like an enormous task. Between baking, writing cards, and managing all your other responsibilities, you might find yourself thinking – “did I even finish buying presents?”
If you haven’t, don’t sweat. Rather than stocking up on the usual gift cards and chocolates, think outside the box and inside the home. Energy-saving gadgets can be fun and unexpected gifts for the loved ones in your life. Not only are you helping to do your part to save energy and the environment, but you’ll definitely earn some “cool” points from your friends and family.
Here are some energy-saving holiday gift ideas (whether for someone on your list or for yourself!):
SMART THERMOSTAT
If you know someone that’s looking to automate their home, consider giving them a smart thermostat. These Wi-Fi connected thermostats can be controlled from your smart device whether you’re in the comfort of your living room or away from home. Features vary between brands, but many can learn from your behaviours to set a schedule, give you data about your home’s energy use, and communicate with other smart home devices and appliances.
Read this article to learn more about how smart thermostats work!
SMART LED LIGHTING
Customizing the lighting system in your home has never been easier! Smart LED lighting systems connect to your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and let you control your light functions and colour from your smart device. Some can even be synced to movies or music, so this is the perfect gift for the entertainment enthusiast in your life.
SMART PLUGS
Smart plugs can be added to existing outlets to provide Wi-Fi connectivity. When you plug lamps, small appliances, or electronics into the smart plug, you can control their functions through your smart device. You might even want to pick one up for yourself – use it for your holiday tree and then for your small appliances and electronics in the new year!
SMART OUTLETS
Smart outlets work similarly to smart plugs, but they’re installed directly into your wall to replace your traditional power outlets. They’re a streamlined alternative with all the same smart functionality.
VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS
Virtual assistants, like the Amazon Alexa and the Google Home, are a great way to coordinate the use of all your smart home devices. Turn down your thermostat, turn on your lights, and illuminate your tree, all by using voice commands.
ADVANCED POWER STRIPS
Do you have a friend or family member that has a bunch of entertainment gadgets? An advanced power strip might be just the thing they need. Unlike traditional power strips that provide extra outlets and surge protection, advanced power strips shut down devices that normally go into standby mode when not in use. Simply plug your computer into the main outlet and your associated devices (like your printer) into the controlled outlets. When you turn your computer off, you automatically turn off power to your other devices.
CAR PLUG TIMERS
Did you know your block heater may only need to operate for three hours before starting your car, even on the coldest nights? An outdoor car plug timer can reduce wasted energy – and it makes a great stocking stuffer!
Give the gift of energy savings this holiday season. Energy-saving devices will save money for years to come, so they’re truly gifts that keep on giving!