Earth Day is almost upon us. As a tech enthusiast, it is easy to forget how much an impact these devices have on our world. The recent norm of upgrading devices every year has lead to an increase in tech-related waste. The energy footprint or our digital economy has a tremendous impact using up to a tenth of the world’s electricity. These are ten products that help save energy to show appreciation for the Earth. Not only can you feel better about going green, but it will also help you save some green as well.
Goal Zero Boulder 30 Solar Panel + Yeti 150 Portable Power Station ($199.99 + $229.99)
Goal Zero has one goal in mind. To take advantage of the sunlight, which is free, to minimize the impact on energy consumption. The Boulder 30 Solar Panel is built with strong tempered glass and a sturdy aluminium frame, which can be used on-the-go or permanently installed. The Boulder 30 does not store a charge, but will power up to 30W to any Goal Zero recharger. The Yeti 150 Portable Power Station is one of those rechargers that can store up to 14Ah. This power station is perfect for emergencies when the power goes out or while you are out camping. Click here for more information about Goal Zero’s awesome products.
Wemo Insight Smart Plug $49.99
The Wemo Insight Smart Plug can monitor your energy consumption from your phone. This information can show you how much energy your devices are consuming and help make the necessary adjustments to save money. You’ll be able to control your devices remotely from your phone. You can also save energy by setting automatic schedules for devices that are plugged in such as lights and appliances.
Belkin 8-Outlet Conserve Switch $35.74
The Belkin Conserve Switch is a smart power strip that can be controlled with a remote. Many devices use energy even in standby mode, which makes it necessary to completely shut off power. There are six outlets that are switchable, which means you can turn them on and off with the remote. The other two outlets are always on for the devices that need continuous energy. The wireless remote has a far range up to 60 feet away.
JTD LED Night Light $29.99
The JTD LED Night Light is motion-activated to illuminate areas when movement is detected. The light has a emergency lighting feature that can provide light for up to two hours during a power outage. The night light will automatically turn off after 25 seconds to save energy. The night light can be put outside next to the house to potentially scare unwanted intruders. It can be detached from the wall to be used as a flashlight for up to 90 minutes.
Philips 60W LED Light Bulb $24.97 for 16 Pack
Everyone should consider switching to LED light bulbs. LED light bulbs use up to 90% less power compared to standard incandescent bulbs. LED lights have much longer lifespans compared to the standard light bulb. The Philips LED light bulbs have a lifespan of 10,000 hours. If you use the bulb 5-6 hours a day, it can last up to 5 years.
Nest Learning Thermostat $219.00
The Nest Learning Thermostat automatically learns the temperatures you set around the house and will program itself after a week. The thermostat will automatically turn itself down when no one is home helping save energy. You can also control the temperature from your phone, tablet, or laptop. It even has Amazon Alexa compatibility, which allows control from your voice.
High Sierra Low Flow Showerhead $39.95
Showers. You need to take one if you don’t want to become a pariah. Showers waste a ton of water. Everyone I know turns on the shower and lets the water run until it’s hot. Sometimes I forget the shower is running because I’m doing something else around the house. The High Sierra Low Flow Showerhead uses a unique spray nozzle to save up to 40% water. The High Sierra Showerhead utilizes its new green technology to produce a luxurious-feeling spray.
Nekteck Solar Charger 10,000 mAh $25.99
The Nekteck Solar Charger is a 10,000 mAh portable charger. This means you should be able to charge an iPhone around 4-5 times and a Google Pixel around 2-3 times. The solar charging feature is much slower compared to charging through an outlet due to the smaller surface area of the panel. This is a trade-off due to a portable design, but is very useful if you live in a very sunny area. The solar charging option is great for outdoor vacations where the charger will constantly be in sunlight.
TaoTronics LED Desk Lamp $27.99
The TaoTronics LED Desk Lamp has five color modes and has seven levels of brightness. The LED lamp uses 75% less energy than a similar incandescent lamp that has the same brightness. It also has a USB port behind the touch panel for charging your devices. There is also an one hour timer that will automatically turn off the lamp reducing energy usage. This is a great feature for all the students out there who fall asleep while studying.
Lasko Ceramic Heater $24.97
Turning on the heater to keep your entire house warm not only uses a lot of energy but is incredibly costly. Space heaters are a cost-saving alternative to keep only the space you need heated. The Lasko Ceramic Heater has three settings 1500-watt, 900-watt, and fan mode. I have one that I store underneath my desk to keep my feet warm.
As technology advances, it is becoming increasing imperative to be environmentally conscious. Technology improves many facets of life, but can have a negative impact on our world. Taking steps to reduce energy consumption can not only help you feel better about yourself, but it can help you save a huge chunk of change.