PolarPal

PolarPal is a provider of smart heating-control technology designed to reduce energy waste while protecting household privacy. Its main product is an occupancy-detection system that works with an existing thermostat rather than requiring homeowners to replace it. A module attaches to the property’s incoming cold-water pipe and detects water use; PolarPal uses this information to infer whether people are at home. When no occupancy is detected, the system can automatically lower heating, including when residents are out, away for a weekend, on vacation, or asleep. The company says the system can reduce heating energy use by up to 14%.

PolarPal’s system includes a pipe-mounted master module, a module wired to the existing heating or cooling control, and a mobile app for setup. It can operate without home Wi-Fi or an internet connection, and the company highlights its non-intrusive approach, with no visible motion sensors or direct monitoring of occupants. The product also detects water leaks, helping users identify potential problems early.