Make Your Home Smarter

‍Make Your Home Smarter: Simple Tech Upgrades That Help You Save

Upgrading your home with smart technology doesn’t require a full renovation or expensive systems. Many smart upgrades are affordable, easy to install, and designed to help you reduce your household costs, from energy bills to potential insurance premiums.

Here are four popular smart home upgrades that offer both convenience and measurable savings.

1. Smart Thermostats
Lower your energy bills automatically
Smart thermostats like Google Nest or Ecobee learn your schedule and adjust your heating and cooling to reduce unnecessary energy use.

       ▪︎   Estimated annual savings: $180 to 220
       ▪︎   Percent savings: 10% to 15% of heating and cooling costs
       ▪︎   Device cost: 100% to $250
       ▪︎   Tip: Manu utility companies offer rebates for eligible smart thermostats

Because heating and cooling can account for nearly half of your home’s energy bill, this is one of the highest-impact upgrades for long-term cost reduction.
‍
2. Smart Locks and Video Doorbells
Prevent loss and improve security
Smart locks give you remote access control and eliminate the need for physical keys or lock replacements. Video doorbells like Ring or Nest help deter theft and monitor package deliveries.

       ▪︎   Device cost: $100 to $300
       ▪︎   Potential savings:
                   ▫︎   Avoid rekeying costs ($80 -$200 per incident)
                   ▫︎   Reduce package theft risk (average U.S. loss: $150+ per theft)
                   ▫︎   Homeowners insurance discounts of 2% to 5% depending on provider

Improved visibility and control can also support faster claims or even reduce your deductible in some cases.
‍
3. Smart Lighting
Control lighting, reduce waste
Smart lighting systems let you turn lights on and off remotely, set schedules, and use energy-efficient LED technology. These upgrades work well for interior and exterior lighting.

       ▪︎   Estimated annual savings: $75 to $100
       ▪︎   Percent savings: Up to 15% of lighting-related electricity costs
       ▪︎   Device cost: $10 to $25 per bulb or plug
       ▪︎   Best for: Bedrooms, entryways, outdoor spaces, or high-traffic areas

Scheduling lights can also improve home security while avoiding unnecessary energy use.
‍
4. Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
Ensure performance of your smart devices
Mesh Wi-Fi systems provide strong, consistent internet coverage throughout your home, preventing dead zones and ensuring your smart devices operate as intended.

       ▪︎   System cost: $100 to $400
       ▪︎   Cost-saving potential:
                   ▫︎   Avoid unnecessary tech replacements due to poor connectivity
                   ▫︎   Prevent data loss or outages with security cameras and thermostats
                   ▫︎   Maximize performance for remote work, streaming, and smart tech

This is especially useful for larger homes or homes with multiple floors and thick walls.
‍
Start Small and Build Over Time
‍You don’t need to make every upgrade at once. Start with one or two areas where you’ll see the most day-to-day benefit  (such as heating or entry security) and grow your system over time. Most smart home technology is designed to integrate smoothly as you add more devices.

A Smarter Home Helps You Spend Less
‍These smart home upgrades are designed to help you reduce ongoing household costs while improving how your home functions. From energy use to security, small changes can deliver real value.

Want more ways to lower your housing expenses?

Explore your Oro Path dashboard for homeowner tools, guides, and financial tips.

Savings Disclaimer
‍Savings estimates are based on national averages for a 2,000 sq ft U.S. home. Figures are drawn from energy usage data, product specifications, and insurance industry averages. Actual results will vary depending on home size, usage habits, local energy rates, and insurance providers. Consult with your utility company or insurer for personalized guidance.

Sources and Further Reading
U.S. Energy Information Administration – Residential Energy Use
Google Nest – Thermostat Overview
Ecobee – Smart Thermostat Features
August – Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Ring – Video Doorbells
TP-Link Kasa Smart Plugs
Philips Hue – Smart Lighting
Eero Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
Consumer Reports – Best Smart Home Devices