IntelEfficient

Back in the early 80’s, I wrote a term paper on integrated control systems for the home.  At the time, this was leading edge technology that promised the ability to program thermostats, security, lights and appliances, and control these devices remotely.  Since then, much of this has become an affordable reality.

Programmable thermostats are about as common as mobile phones these days.  There’s no sense heating and cooling your home to be comfortable when you’re not there, so if you have a reasonably predictable schedule, get one of these.  Laclede Gas will even pay about half the cost with their $25 rebate.  You can even set it to drop the temperature a few degrees while you’re under the covers at night, and have the house warmed up by the time your alarm goes off. Read the rest of this entry »