Eco Mode: What It Does and When to Use It

Published on March 13, 2025

by Alex Keeps

Eco Mode is a feature found in many smart home devices—from thermostats to appliances—designed to save energy and cut utility costs. But what does it actually do, and when should you use it?

This guide explains how Eco Mode works, its benefits and limitations, and when it’s the right setting for your home.

What Is Eco Mode?

Eco Mode is a low-energy setting that adjusts how a device functions to reduce power or fuel consumption. In smart thermostats, for example, it may set wider temperature ranges; in dishwashers or washing machines, it might run cooler or shorter cycles.

While each device may implement Eco Mode differently, the goal is always the same: use less energy while maintaining acceptable performance.

Step-by-Step: Use Eco Mode Effectively

Here’s how to activate and make the most of Eco Mode across common smart home devices.

Step 1: Identify Which Devices Support Eco Mode

Look for Eco Mode in devices such as:

Smart thermostats (e.g., Nest, ecobee)
Smart plugs with energy-saving features
Smart washing machines or dishwashers
Smart lighting systems with dimming presets
Electric vehicle chargers or HVAC systems

Check the device’s manual or app for Eco Mode under settings or automation options.

Step 2: Enable Eco Mode in the App

Most smart home apps include a toggle for Eco Mode. In thermostats, this may appear as a separate mode or part of a preset schedule. For smart appliances, it’s usually under energy settings or preferences.

Enable it during setup or add it to a routine to activate at certain times of day.

Step 3: Schedule It Strategically

Use Eco Mode during periods of low activity or when you’re not home. For example, a smart thermostat can switch to Eco Mode during work hours, while a dishwasher might use it during off-peak electricity times.

Automation and geofencing features can help make this hands-free.

Step 4: Monitor Energy Impact

Track your energy usage with your device’s built-in reports or via a smart meter or plug. This shows how much energy Eco Mode is saving and helps you decide whether to keep it on full-time or part-time.

Some devices display real-time savings, making it easier to evaluate their impact.

Step 5: Combine with Other Savings Settings

Boost Eco Mode’s effectiveness by pairing it with:

Motion sensors to turn off devices when no one’s in the room
Smart schedules that reduce peak-hour usage
Lower brightness or shorter cycles when appropriate

The more automation you apply, the more seamless and impactful the savings will be.

Real-Life Tip

Try setting Eco Mode on your thermostat when you go on vacation or leave for the weekend. It keeps temperatures within a safe range while using far less energy than your standard settings.

Common Mistakes

Don’t fall into these traps when using Eco Mode:

Assuming it’s always on by default—many devices require manual activation
Using Eco Mode during times of high need (e.g., extreme heat or cold)
Not reviewing how it affects performance or comfort
Forgetting to schedule regular mode during high-use times
Failing to update app or firmware for new Eco features

Tips for Different Lifestyles

Adjust your Eco Mode usage based on your daily patterns:

Families: Use Eco Mode overnight or during school hours
Remote workers: Set Eco Mode in unused rooms only
Travelers: Enable Eco Mode as part of an ‘Away’ routine
Eco-conscious users: Combine Eco Mode with renewable energy usage insights

Further Advice

Maximize the benefits of Eco Mode with these strategies:

Add Eco Mode to a voice-activated scene (e.g., “Save Energy” command)
Test it for one week and compare usage to regular mode
Look for energy star–rated devices with advanced Eco settings
Check for rebates from utilities on Eco-friendly devices

Takeaway

Eco Mode is a simple but powerful tool in the smart home toolbox. By knowing how and when to use it, you can reduce energy consumption, lower bills, and make your home more sustainable—without sacrificing comfort.