Device detection in your home happens over time, with new devices being identified periodically. Since Sense finds different devices in every home, keep an eye out for notifications when new devices are detected.
Step 1: Completing the Device Survey
When you first set up your Sense account, you'll be invited to complete a survey about major devices in your home. It only takes about two minutes, and it's important to complete it as soon as possible.
Why This Matters
- Your survey responses help Sense estimate energy usage for key appliances even before they’re detected in real time.
- As you add or replace appliances, you’ll be able to update your device list over time.
Step 2: Historical Device Estimates
Before Sense fully detects a device in real time, it may generate historical estimates based on your survey.
Where to Find These Estimates
📌 Notifications: If enabled, you’ll get alerts when historical estimates are available.
📌 Dashboard (Usage Feature): These devices will appear in week, month, bill, and year views.
📌 Devices List: Devices with historical estimates will have blue icons, but limited settings until real-time detection occurs.
Key Notes on Historical Estimates
- Not visible in real time: These devices won’t appear on the Now screen or timeline yet.
- Calculated overnight: Today’s usage will still be counted under "Other" until the next day.
- Grouped devices: If you have multiple of the same device, Sense will display them as a group (e.g., “Fridges: 2 units”).
💡 Tip: Want to check a device’s energy use before it’s detected? Try Watt Check for insights.
Step 3: Real-Time Detection
Once Sense confidently identifies a device, you’ll start seeing real-time activity in the app.
Where to Find Real-Time Detected Devices
✔ Now Screen: The device will appear as a bubble when it’s on.
✔ Timeline: Tracks on/off events (customizable in settings).
✔ Dashboard: Shows hourly energy use and total home usage.
✔ Devices List:
- Additional settings (location, make/model, notifications)
- Detailed power meter view for the device
- Option to set goals and track energy use
Why Some Devices Take Longer to Detect
Device detection is an ongoing process that continues indefinitely. Some devices are easier to detect than others:
✅ Frequent cycling devices (fridge, dryer, water heater) → detected sooner
⏳ Low-power or variable-speed devices (TVs, gaming consoles) → may take longer
🔄 Complex appliances with multiple components → detected in stages, requiring you to merge them into one named device
How You Can Help Improve Detection
- Confirm Sense’s device detections when they appear.
- Name and differentiate detected devices.
- Merge components into a single named device when applicable.
Your engagement helps improve accuracy and reporting—leading to better insights for your home’s energy use!
For more details:
🔍 How Does Sense Detect My Devices?
🔍 Sense Found a New Device—Now What?
🔍 How Do I Set Energy Goals?