A wireless electricity monitor is a device used to monitor electricity consumption. In a typical wireless electricity monitor configuration, a unit that measures energy output is connected to the electricity meter in a home meter box, and that unit transmits information about energy consumption wirelessly to a display unit. The display unit shows the amount of power being used, the cost of the power and the greenhouse gas emissions caused by the electricity being consumed. Some units also display other information such as ambient temperature and humidity.
Wireless electricity monitors are easier to use than wired electricity monitors because they allow users to place the display unit anywhere in their homes. This way, users can frequently check the amount of energy being used without having to walk to a meter or run wires through their homes. Wireless electricity monitors are usually battery-operated, though some units have direct current (DC) adapters that enable them to be plugged into wall power.
Most people who use a wireless electricity monitor do so to reduce energy consumption. Having a constant visual reminder of how much energy is being used at any given time, how much the energy costs and how much of an effect the energy use has on the environment can help people stay mindful of their energy use and remind them to turn off appliances when they aren’t using them. The monitors can also be used to figure out how much energy particular machines and appliances are consuming so users can determine how they can best reduce their energy use.
Sometimes, a wireless electricity monitor only shows how much energy is currently being used, but many wireless electricity monitors also store usage data and enable users to review their daily, weekly and monthly energy use. This tracking ability can help users review how they’re using electricity, stay motivated to continue using less electricity and develop strategies for reducing consumption. A wireless electricity monitor is not very expensive, and many users say they recoup the cost of the monitor in just a month or two by using less energy.
Some wireless electricity monitors also have the ability to connect to a personal computer. The transmitter unit can stream energy usage data to a device connected to the computer, usually through a universal serial bus (USB) port. Computer software that comes with the data receiver typically enables detailed electricity tracking and reporting.
