My car has a handy gauge that tells me how many miles per gallon I’m getting. I like to glance at it while getting to point B to see how my driving style affects the efficiency of my vehicle. When I first got the car, I was absolutely obsessed with getting the best mileage possible. I thought, wouldn’t it be great to have something like this for your home, to show you how well you’re using your electricity?
I think many of us are hip to turning off lights when we leave the room and the like, but the Blueline Powercost Monitor helps you actually see the results of your actions in real time. With the WiFi Edition, it connects with your Microsoft Hohm account to help you analyze it further by providing charts and graphs while offering tips and suggestions.
Though I have to admit I did have some anxiety about it, installing the system was pretty easy. The most difficult part for me was determining my billing rate. My bill wasn’t clear so I had to call the power supply company, and talk to a representative, who I hope gave me the correct information (she didn’t sounds too confident).
Once I got everything programmed, installation was a snap. I followed the instructions carefully and managed to install it properly the first time. I’m always shocked when things work on the first attempt.
The monitor itself is nice looking, and even displays the time and outside temperature which is handy. Best of all, I like seeing my monthly electric bill estimate. It definitely helps keep the family mindful of their electricity use when we can all see the results in real time.
We sure could have used this over the summer when we racked up that $430 electric bill. I did a few screenshots of my Hohm account, but I didn’t have much data to display so my chart looks like a vertical line, but I grabbed images from the Microsoft Hohm blog to show you an example of how your energy use might be charted out. You can ID the results by what appliance you had running, time of day and compare information from month to month, and year to year. This system is similar in detail to charts you’d use to monitor your spending.
The PowerCost Monitor™ WiFi Edition has an MSRP of $268, and includes sensor, in home monitor, WiFi Gateway, AC adapter, mini usb, and manuals. It’s an investment for your home and your environment and helps provide that first step toward a green home.
I have not been compensated for this post. I received the products mentioned in order to form my opinion and share it my readers.
Interesting review. Having the cost impact info from this monitor would certainly encourage the family to make more reasonable choices.
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