There are a number of reasons why people forget to turn off the lights at night. You may be too comfy in bed to get up; the switch is outside on the porch, and it’s just too cold outside. But failing to turn the lights off can quickly add up on your monthly electricity bill.

If you want to take a more proactive approach to lowering your electric bill, installing a smart light switch panel can help. Here are just some of the affordable solutions available in the market today.

Belkin’s WeMo Light Switch

This Wi-Fi-enabled smart light switch allows users to control their lights using their smartphone or tablet via the WeMo app. You can set schedules for when the lights turn on or off, use enhanced sunrise/sunset rules, and there’s even a customizable long press option. It is easy to install and has a backlight that makes it easy to locate after dark. The WeMo Light Switch costs $49.99.

Legrand’s Wave Switch

Unlike other smart switches, the Wave Switch does not allow you to remotely control your lights using your mobile device. What it does is allow you to turn lights on or off with a wave of your hand. Though this may not sound too smart for your connected home, it does allow you to control a single light or multiple lights with a simple gesture. The device costs $57.48.

Image via Legrand

Wink Relay

Forget about switches to turn the lights on or off. Wink is revolutionizing standard switches with Relay, a touchscreen controller for your smart home. Relay runs the Wink app, which allows you to control several connected devices from one central location. Aside from controlling connected lights and other smart appliances, Relay also functions as an intercom, as it has a built-in microphone and speaker so you don’t have to shout at the top of your lungs when you need to talk to someone in a different part of the house. The Wink Relay system retails for $300.

Control4 lighting

Control4 offers a panelized lighting solution that allows users and even their guests to operate connected things in the house. The panelized lighting solution can be engraved, allowing people to choose which buttons are designated for turning lights on or off, activating home entertainment, bringing the shades up or down, and a button that turns everything off, offering a variety of customization options to suit anyone’s needs.

Switchmate

Renters have few options when it comes to smart home devices, especially for smart light switches, as they need to be installed by a professional who will deal with all the wiring needs. But a crowdfunded project called Switchmate aims to change all that. Switchmate magnetically snaps on top of your existing light switch, which means no screws, no wires to be configured, and is something renters can easily install in their unit as it will not damage the property. Once Switchmate is in place, users can now use their smartphone to control their light.

Feature image credit: Cayusa via photopin cc