Energy Saving Devices – Energy & Water Conservation Blog

What is the Difference Between a Tier 1 and Tier 2 Advanced Power Strip?

Posted on 07/01/202207/01/2022 by Yaminah Jappah

In the world of power strips, there are two types of advanced power strips. Each has its own set of features and capabilities that make it a good option for different situations in your home. The first type is called a tier 1 advanced power strip, and the second is called a tier 2 advanced power strip. In this article, we’ll explain what these terms mean and how they differ from one another so you can decide which type is right for you!

What is a tier 1 advanced power strip?

A tier 1 advanced power strip is the most basic type of APS. It consists of a single control outlet, usually accompanied by two always-on outlets, and three or more outlets that are automatically switched on or off based on the on/off status of the control device.

These are ideal for use in homes, where they’re plugged into a wall socket next to an appliance like your television or computer monitor. They’re generally inexpensive, so if you need to protect just one device from surges or spikes, this might be the best option to go with.

**Tier 1 Advanced Smart Power Strip (APS)**

What is a tier 2 advanced power strip?

Tier 2 Advanced Power Strips (APS) are more expensive, more powerful, and more durable than their tier 1 counterparts. These devices are designed to handle higher loads while maintaining the same level of safety as Tier 1 Advanced Power Strips. Some tier 2 devices also feature:

Remote switch capability so that you can essentially control the power strip from your phone or other mobile device
Timer connectivity so that you can automatically turn off anything plugged into one of these power strips after a certain amount of time has elapsed
Software and hardware filtering technology that filters out IR interference from non-AV equipment

Advanced power strips can help you control your home’s electricity. There are different tiers of APS to consider.

Advanced power strips (APS) are strips of outlets with an extra function: they let you control the flow of electricity to your devices. APS have a number of different tiers and functions, which can help you save money, protect your electronics and protect your home against surges.

Conservation Kits Provide Instant Savings

Posted on 07/15/202107/16/2021 by Yaminah Jappah

As the climate crisis on our planet has become a climate emergency, a lot of us are looking for different ways to improve our carbon footprint. While this may initially seem like a daunting and expensive task, it truly isn’t. There are many small ways to start saving both energy and water around your home or building that won’t break the bank. Conservation kits are prepared with these types of savings in mind, and the items they contain provide instant savings once installed.

Improving Energy Efficiency

According to Time.com, “On average, remote workers have seen a $40-50 monthly increase in their energy costs—or as much as $600 a year.” With energy bills steadily on the rise, employing measures that can produce savings right away is even more pressing. Common items you’ll find in conservation kits include:

LED Light Bulbs, which use up to 80% less energy than their incandescent counterparts
Closed Cell Foam to limit drafts and heat from entering through doors
Outlet Gaskets that block air leaks from outlets
Rope caulk to seal air from entering through windows

Help Me Save Water

Each day, the average home in the United States uses approximately 80-100 gallons of water at home. A surprising number, right? When you consider the amount of times we wash our hands and dishes, flush the toilets, and even shower, this number really begins to take shape. Let’s take a step back, and see how we can bring this number down.

Low flow aerators reduce the amount (but not the pressure) of water coming from faucets. Their flow rates range from 0.5-2.0 gallons of water per minute.
Low flow shower heads follow this same concept, except with the shower. Many of these shower heads are also self-cleaning.
A toilet tank bank is placed in the toilet tank to limit the amount of water used per flush.
Outdoor water savers allow you to expand water savings outside of the home and into your gardens.

Saving energy and water at home, or in your building, can actually be quite simple. With a few quick installations of items found in conservation kits you can be well on your way to helping the climate and your wallet at the same time.

Tier 2 Advanced Power Strip for Advanced Savings

Posted on 10/25/201910/25/2019 by Yaminah Jappah

Taking energy efficiency to the next level in your home or business is as simple as plugging an outlet into the wall. The catch: it needs to be the right one. Standard power strips provide power non-stop to all electronics plugged into them. Smart power strips allow for savings by letting you control one or a few outlets, while the power strip controls the rest. A tier 2 advanced power strip takes those savings even further by allowing multiple options for control while providing optimal surge protection for your devices.

We covered the difference between a tier 1 and tier 2 power strip earlier if you want to go into the details. Now, let’s dive into the major benefits of a tier 2 device.

Multiple Sensors

The tier 2 power strip has built-in sensors that detect both motion and infrared (IR) remote control signals. It is equipped with an intelligent algorithm that looks first for IR signals from a remote, and then looks to detect motion if no IR signals are found. Without the presence of either, the adjustable countdown timer is initiated, and powers off devices after that time has passed with no activity present. Additionally, some strips even feature bluetooth technology, allowing for control over devices right from your smartphone.

Surge Protection That’s Fireproof

Advanced power strips come complete with enhanced surge protection in the form of the metal oxide varistors (MOV). These components are designed to dissolve heat much faster than traditional surge protectors. It is also covered by a fireproof ceramic casing. This technology makes it possible to prevent a fire from occurring in the event of a power surge.

Know and Control Energy Usage

The tier 2 power strip communicates and records energy usage data. This includes the history of the energy used by the devices that are plugged into it as well as the real-time data. All of this information can be accessed through a mobile app available for both iOS® and Android® devices. Through the app, users can manage and predict electricity usage and costs, get updated on surge and ground status, sign up for promotions, and complete product registration as well as receive support. In addition, data records are also stored in a raw format, allowing easy access by evaluators and program admins for statistics, installation verification, and tracking.

As technology evolves, the way we use it evolves as well. Using a tier 2 advanced power strip to control the energy consumed by devices is an ideal way to continue to enjoy our tech with the added bonus of energy efficiency.

Using A Tier 2 Power Strip for Advanced Savings

Posted on 10/22/2018 by Yaminah Jappah

A computer, DVR, and TV are just some of the devices we use daily in our homes and businesses. These are also some of the most common devices left plugged in long after being shut off. While powering off does reduce energy use, it doesn’t stop the device from using energy. One of the simplest way to combat this phantom energy use is with a tier 2 power strip. These advanced devices are highly intuitive, and can be used in both residential and commercial environments.

What’s the Big Difference?

Tier 1 and 2 power strips both work to reduce the amount of energy used by the devices that are plugged into them. The key difference between these two is the intuitive technology the advanced power strips feature.

Power and motion sensor to reliably control power supply to all plugged in equipment
Adjustable standby control delays the sensor for activities such as movie-watching / completely cuts off power after an allotted period
Bluetooth connectivity with Apple iOS / Android device to control the power strip and view usage details in an app
Designated PC outlet for controlling A Windows PC running on Microsoft Windows versions 7, 8 or 10

Tested and Proven

You don’t have to worry about experimenting in your home or business, because that’s exactly where these power strips have been tested. By using them on millions of devices outside of a laboratory, the tier 2 power strip is a proven energy saver. These power strips allow you to reduce the energy usage for 8 devices in either a commercial or residential setting with 2 always on, and 6 controlled outlets.

If you’re looking for a way to save energy and money in these spaces, consider giving the advanced power strip a try. At the very least, you won’t have to worry anymore about the energy being lost when you walk away and forget to unplug.

What is a Ceiling Occupancy Sensor

Posted on 05/07/201810/27/2018 by Yaminah Jappah

One of the easiest ways to save energy when it comes to lighting is to simply turn the lights off when leaving a room. While this sounds simple enough, it’s also one of the easiest tasks to forget. As time goes on, lighting technology continues to advance. Also advancing is the technology being used with light bulbs and fixtures. Installing a ceiling occupancy sensor or a high bay sensor is a quick way to start cutting energy use and costs in any building, especially in commercial spaces that undoubtedly consume more energy than residential properties.

How do sensors work?

The sensors use what is known as passive infrared technology (PIR) that turn lights on and off based on two factors: ambient light levels and occupancy. As long as the ambient light is at a certain level, the sensor will keep the lights from turning on. They can also be set to turn the lights on and keep them on as long as occupancy, or movement, is detected. After the allotted time has passed, or no movement is picked up by the sensor, the lights will be turned off.

Where should I install it?

Buildings with high energy usage, such as hotel locations, warehouses, and other commercial and industrial buildings are ideal spaces for occupancy sensors. No intense or extremely difficult programming is required. The sensors are designed to be compatible with standard lighting systems. Additionally, they are programmed to work with CFLs, LEDs, and new fixture/retrofit installations.

How much can I save?

In buildings with high energy usage, lighting accounts for up to 25% of all energy that is being used. The sensors have been tested by the manufacturers to ensure they not only perform at the highest quality, but will last for years. Installing the ceiling occupancy sensor and the high bay sensor saves not only energy and money, but also helps add to the overall lifetime of your lights, as they’ll no longer be in use when they don’t need to be. Installing sensors leads to automatically reduced energy consumption, energy costs, and your carbon footprint.

Save Money with a Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat

Posted on 04/19/201710/27/2018 by Yaminah Jappah

Have you ever had that feeling while you were traveling that you forgot to do something before you left the house? Took out the garbage – check; turned on the alarm – check; adjusted the thermostat – “Oh no!” It is upsetting to realize that you are spending money to heat or cool your home while you are away on your vacation. With the Lux Geo 7-Day Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat you can easily change the temperature anytime from anywhere.

It is estimated, that if used properly, programmable thermostats can save you 10-20% on your heating and cooling bills. If you spend a good portion of your day out of the house, shifting your temperature up or down by a few degrees will lead to noticeable savings on your bill.

In the past, thermostats could be a little daunting to program. However, the Lux Geo 7-Day Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat is easy to install and is even capable of working with your Amazon Alexa so you can control your home comfort with your voice! Simply download the LUX mobile app, set up your account and then in the Amazon Alexa mobile app menu under Skills, search for LUX Products and click enable. In the Alexa mobile app under Skills, clicking into the LUX Products Skill will show the proper phrases for using voice commands with your LUX/GEO thermostat.

In the app you can also use the Radius® geofencing feature to automatically save energy. This feature allows you to set your “away radius.” Once you get closer to your home, the system will turn on to bring your home to the optimal temperature. This way, if you have a varied schedule, you don’t have to set a specific away time.

The Lux Geo 7-Day Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat just made it a lot easier to save energy and money on your heating and cooling costs.

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5 Reasons to Buy Energy Saving Kits from Conservation Mart

Posted on 08/22/201607/07/2017 by Conservation Mart

Conservation Mart is a minority, certified woman-owned business and thanks to our extensive product line and unsurpassed service, we’ve had the honor of supplying an impressive lineup of well-respected organizations. Through serving thousands of customers, we have built a substantial knowledge base of how to realize energy and water savings. We truly enjoy working with organizations to help them find just the right products for their customers. Here are five reasons why Conservation Mart is your best choice for energy saving kits:

1. Experience – Conservation Mart have been assembling Energy, Water, and Weatherization Kits since 2009 and have had the honor to serve hundreds of customers such as Utilities, Water Departments, Weatherization Agencies, and Corporations.

2. Customization – We have both energy and water kit assortments based on items that customers have ordered as well the ability to do custom kits.

3. Packaging – We offer a variety of packaging options such as Ziploc bags, boxes, or canvas bags.

4. Inserts – We can include any inserts that a customer wishes to provide. Most customers opt to provide their logo and contact info which we include in our kit insert. We have also printed bilingual inserts, with English on one side and Spanish on the other side.

5. Include your Logo – We offer a selection of personalized, eco-friendly promotional products. You can have company’s logo printed on many items, such as a shower timer, temperature gauge, water ruler, or LED nightlight.

Our customer service team, located just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, makes your satisfaction our first priority. Call our toll-free number: 1-800-789-8598, and you will be greeted by a live person who will be able to give you a quote and help you build your kits.

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DIY Air Conditioner Covers Can Lead to Big Savings

Posted on 11/16/201509/07/2016 by Conservation Mart

When summer is over, the window air conditioner is a gateway for cold air to come into the home and for warm air to escape. If you prefer to leave your air conditioner in the window, rather than lifting it out and storing it for the winter, you will want a cover that fits snugly over the unit to protect against air leaks.

There are a wide range of creative options like these:

However, if you don’t have a lot of time for a big DIY project, you can purchase an attractive fabric window ac cover for less than $15.

Made in the USA, Endraft air conditioner covers are a beige, washable poly/cotton fabric and come with a 100% wind blocking liner, a roll of removable vinyl tape and a set of installation instructions. Endraft is unconditionally guaranteed to stop all cold drafts, dirt, and allergens that blow through idle room air conditioners.

air conditioner cover beige

With its high energy efficient insulating qualities, Endraft replaces non-insulating outdoor covers and can lengthen the life of an air conditioner. Exterior covers used alone cut off air circulation and trap the indoor heat. The heat then collides with the cold outside air and can cause condensation, rust, and damage.

Endraft has been tested by an independent laboratory, CON EDISON, and the LONG ISLAND LIGHTING CO., and its use has been suggested to many utility customers as a major way to reduce overhead. CON EDISON told one large cooperative complex in New York City that if it covered all of its room air conditioners with Endraft, it would save $70,000 per year in heating bills!

This easy and inexpensive DIY weekend project will save you a noticeable amount of energy and money each winter.

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Exorcise Phantom Loads and Energy Vampires with Smart Strips

Posted on 10/26/201504/13/2016 by Conservation Mart

Three pounds of carbon emissions are emitted from the average two-person household on a daily basis for appliances that are turned off! This is called a phantom load.

Appliances such as your TV, DVD player, and others that are thought to be turned off are actually only in standby mode, and use energy from the equivalent of 12 power plants and cost a billion dollars annually. TVs, computers, game consoles, and phones appear to be the largest energy vampires.

With Smart Strip Power Strips, the outlets work together, auto-switching your devices on and off automatically, saving you money on your electric bills. Three of the outlets always have power, allowing you to plug-in devices that should never turn off (one of those is transformer-spaced). Of the other seven, one of the outlets is the main outlet, and the other six of the outlets are “controlled” (three are transformer-spaced). Those six controlled outlets will automatically turn off whenever a 10%+ drop in current to the main outlet is detected, and automatically turn on when an increase of 7 watts or more in power to the main outlet is sensed. In other words, plug your computer into the main outlet, and its peripherals into any of the other six. When you shut down your computer, all of the peripherals will also turn off. When you turn on your computer, the peripherals will all turn on.

By using a Smart Strip at your work and entertainment centers, you will notice a significant savings on your energy bills, effectively banishing the energy vampires for good.

Energy Saving Kits and Weatherization Workshops Available Across the US

Posted on 10/14/201505/19/2022 by Conservation Mart

The U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program provides grants to states, territories, and some Indian tribes to improve the energy efficiency of the homes of low-income families by providing energy conservation products.

The grants enable local governments and nonprofit agencies to provide weatherization services and home energy upgrades. The low-cost improvements, like adding weather stripping to doors and windows to save energy, lead to long-term savings.

In addition to helping families save money, the resources saved through energy conservation also helps our country reduce its dependence on foreign oil and decreases emissions of greenhouse gases.

The Weatherization Assiatance Program (WAP) has training centers across the country and boasts some impressive statistics:

Since the inception of the WAP, over 7 million homes have been weatherized with DOE funds.
Energy savings average 35% of consumption for the typical low-income home.
Occupants of weatherized homes experience in the range of $400 in annual savings on their energy bills, at current energy prices.
Weatherization measures reduce national energy demand by the equivalent of 24.1 million barrels of oil per year.

If you do not have a WAP in your area, look for a Community Action Partnership (CAP) program.

Their weatherization program is available for both homeowners and renters who receive fuel assistance. Using local licensed contractors, the program provides free major improvements, such as attic and wall insulation, air sealing, and other energy-saving repairs.

These organizations and other local agencies, like the Community Energy Project in OR, offer weatherization workshops to learn how to install energy saving devices in your home.

Energy Saving Kits often include items such as reusable vinyl storm window kits, door weatherstripping, pipe insulation, a compact fluorescent light and more.

Conservation Mart offers a wide variety of weatherization, energy conservation products and water saving devices directly to consumers and we are happy to customize kits for your organization. Please call us for a quote: 1-800-789-8598.

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What is a tier 1 advanced power strip?

What is a tier 2 advanced power strip?

Advanced power strips can help you control your home’s electricity. There are different tiers of APS to consider.

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