Intelligent insights about buying smart appliances
January-February 2025
Most smart appliances are designed to reduce energy consumption, with operating modes that deliver the performance you want while making more efficient use of energy.
by Scott Flood, Contributing Columnist
This time of year, retailers start trumpeting deep discounts on home appliances. That’s great if you’ve considered replacing some of your home’s tired appliances with one of today’s “smart” models. But before buying a smart appliance, take some time to get smarter about what they offer – and what you really need.
Begin by honestly examining your lifestyle and considering the role your current appliances play in your daily routine. Next, consider any smart devices you already use in your home.
Many smart appliances are engineered to work with familiar voice assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple’s Siri.
CAN YOU HANDLE IT?
Is your home’s infrastructure ready to handle the demands of a smart appliance? Depending upon the model you choose, it might require anything from a basic internet connection to a home Wi-Fi network to provide the operation you expect. Some smart appliances may require Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave or other systems for connectivity. Others have the ability to receive software updates via Wi-Fi. Having access to the right technology ensures your system will function correctly and be able to handle updates as they become available.
DOES SMART EQUAL EFFICIENCY?
It’s always important to consider energy efficiency when purchasing a new appliance. Most smart appliances are designed to reduce energy consumption, with operating modes that deliver the performance you want while using less energy. Many also let you schedule operations during times of day when energy rates are lower. This is particularly beneficial for high-energy appliances like washing machines, dishwashers and clothes dryers.
Repairs to smart appliances can be expensive, so be sure to consider the warranty. Generous manufacturer warranties demonstrate the company’s confidence in the quality of its products.
When seeking smart home technologies, focus on the features you’ll use most, rather than the flashy bells and whistles that aren’t specific to your needs.
IS SMART MORE COST-EFFECTIVE?
For most homeowners, the biggest downside to smart appliances is that they carry a higher price tag than their not-so-smart counterparts. However, price is just one factor in the cost of any appliance. When you also consider the long-term value smart appliances deliver — whether that’s in energy savings, helpful conveniences or improved reliability — most will save you money over their service life. In addition, smart appliances may be eligible for rebates and tax incentives, so ask your retailer what’s available.
What’s ahead for smart appliances in the foreseeable future? The marketplace is starting to see the integration of basic artificial intelligence capabilities that can make smart appliances provide better service, greater reliability and lower energy needs. As these AI-fueled systems become more common, your refrigerator might know your habits so well that it can generate a shopping list for you. Your dishwasher could adjust its operating cycle to clean your family’s uniquely dirty dishes better.
There was a time when appliances changed little from decade to decade. Today, products advance more quickly than ever before, and we can expect to see more big changes ahead. Fortunately, today’s smart appliances allow you to start using the technology that will make you the envy of your neighbors as it makes your life easier.
Scott Flood writes on various energy-related topics for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.