Smart plugs are an innovative and convenient way to make your home smarter. They can help you control your devices, save energy, and even improve your security. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we'll discuss 5 key points to consider when looking for uses for smart plugs.
Firstly, make sure the smart plug is compatible with your home's electrical system. Some smart plugs require a specific voltage or current, and not all homes have the same wiring. Secondly, consider the type of device you want to connect to the smart plug. Some smart plugs are designed for specific devices, such as lamps, while others can handle more power-hungry appliances like air conditioners and heaters.
Thirdly, check if the smart plug offers remote control. This feature allows you to turn your devices on and off from anywhere using your smartphone, which can be useful if you want to turn off a device you forgot to switch off before leaving home. Fourthly, consider the energy monitoring features of the smart plug. This will help you track your energy usage and make changes to save money on your bills.
Lastly, consider the overall ease of use and compatibility with your smart home ecosystem. Some smart plugs work with a variety of voice assistants, while others require a specific app to control them. With these key points in mind, you can find the perfect smart plug to make your home smarter, more efficient, and more secure.
10 Best Uses For Smart Plug
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1. Weatherproof Outdoor Smart Plug With 4-Outlet Extender, Remote Control, Timer, And Surge Protection, Works With Alexa, Google Assistant, And Ifttt.
The Outdoor Smart Plug from POWRUI is a highly functional power strip that allows you to control four different appliances individually. With a maximum capacity of 15A/1875W per outlet, this smart plug is packed with features that make it an ideal fit for both indoor and outdoor use.
One of the standout features of the Outdoor Smart Plug is its compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Amazon Echo dot/tap/show, and Google Assistant, which allows you to control the plug through voice commands. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor use, where you may not have easy access to your phone or tablet.
In addition to voice control, the Outdoor Smart Plug also allows you to create schedules and timers for each of the four outlets. This feature is perfect for controlling lighting, sprinklers, or other outdoor appliances, as it lets you set up automatic schedules that keep your outdoor space running smoothly all year round.
Setting up the Outdoor Smart Plug is incredibly easy, with no hub required. Simply plug the device into your outdoor socket and complete the network configuration in minutes. It's important to note that this device only works with 2.4G networks, so be sure to confirm your network before purchasing.
The Outdoor Smart Plug also comes with a range of safety features, including an IP44 weatherproof rating, a 3-level complementary surge protection circuit with 1080 Joules, and a PC fireproof material and splash-proof design. These features make the Outdoor Smart Plug both weather and impact resistant, ensuring it can withstand damp or wet conditions.
Finally, the Outdoor Smart Plug is ETL certified, and comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and a 12-month replacement warranty. So, if you're looking for a highly functional, weatherproof smart plug that can help you control your outdoor appliances with ease, the Outdoor Smart Plug from POWRUI is a great choice.
2. 4-Pack Wifi Smart Plugs W/ Energy Monitoring, 15a Max/10a Continuous, Mobile App, Alexa/google, Etl Certified.
The Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring is a versatile and convenient device that allows users to control their appliances and electronics from anywhere using their smartphone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home Assistant. The package includes four smart plugs that are ETL certified, ensuring safety and reliability.
This device is designed to work with appliances and electronics that plug into 120V outlets with a maximum continuous load of 10A (15A peak load for up to 1hr/day). Users can easily control their lights, fans, lamps, humidifiers, and other devices, eliminating the need for manual switching.
One of the standout features of the Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring is its ability to monitor energy usage. By tracking the energy consumed by devices and appliances, users can identify and eliminate wasteful standby power, save on electricity costs, and extend the life of their products. This feature is especially useful for those who are conscious of their energy consumption and want to make informed decisions about their usage.
Users can also schedule on/off times for their appliances and devices, making it easy to automate their daily routines. For example, users can set their coffee machine to start brewing at a specific time, ensuring they wake up to freshly brewed coffee. This feature also helps to conserve energy by turning off devices when they are not needed.
The Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring also allows users to control their devices remotely using the Emporia App on their phone. With an internet connection, users can check the real-time status of their appliances and toggle them on or off from anywhere. This feature is especially useful for those who want to ensure that their devices are turned off when they are away from home, or for those who want to turn on their lights before they arrive home.
It is important to note that the Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring requires a 2.4 GHz WiFi network with an internet connection to control devices remotely from a phone. 5.0 GHz WiFi networks are not supported.
In conclusion, the Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring is a convenient and versatile device that allows users to control their appliances and electronics from anywhere using their phone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home Assistant. With energy monitoring, scheduling, and remote control features, this device is perfect for those who want to save on electricity costs and make their lives easier.
3. 2-Pack Kasa Smart Plugs, Wi-Fi Outlet With Alexa, Google Home & Ifttt, Remote Control, Ul Certified, No Hub Required.
The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is a smart home Wi-Fi outlet that is designed to make your life easier. With this plug, you can add voice control to any outlet, allowing you to control your home electronic appliances with your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
One of the key features of the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is its ability to enable you to turn electronics on and off from anywhere using your smartphone. This means that you can control your appliances whether you are at home, in the office or on vacation. You can also use the Kasa app to set timer or countdown schedules to automatically turn on and off any home electronic appliances such as lamps, fans, humidifiers, Christmas lights, and more.
Setting up and using the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is easy. All you need is a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection. Simply plug in the device, open the Kasa app, and follow the simple instructions to start using it. The button on the side of each HS103 Smart Plug will toggle the power state of the Smart Plug, and the appliance connected to it.
The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is designed and developed in Silicon Valley, which means that it is both trusted and reliable. It is UL certified for safety use and has been used by over 4 million users. The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is also the reader’s choice for PCMag 2020.
In summary, the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is a smart home Wi-Fi outlet that offers voice control, remote control, scheduling, and easy setup and use. It is designed and developed in Silicon Valley, is trusted by over 4 million users, and is UL certified for safety use. With the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2, you can enjoy the hands-free convenience of controlling any home electronic appliances with your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
4. Wemo Mini Smart Plug 3-Pack, Wifi Enabled, Works With Amazon Alexa And The Google Assistant
The Wemo Mini Smart Plug 3-Pack is a convenient and easy-to-use solution for controlling your lights and appliances from anywhere. With WiFi connectivity and compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, this smart plug allows you to use your voice or phone to turn your devices on and off.
One of the key features of the Wemo Mini Smart Plug is its compact size. The sleek new form factor allows you to stack two mini smart plugs in the same outlet, saving space and making it easy to control multiple devices at once. Additionally, the plug only requires WiFi connectivity and does not require a hub or subscription to operate.
The Wemo Mini Smart Plug also allows you to schedule your devices to turn on and off automatically. This feature allows you to sync lamps and devices to sunrise, sunset, or pre-set times, so you never come home to a dark house. You can even use the "Away Mode" to randomize your lights and make it look like you're home, even when you're not.
For users of Apple HomeKit, the Wemo Mini Smart Plug is automatically compatible. Simply download the latest version of the Wemo app and follow the steps to connect your devices to the Apple Home app. The plug also features a minimum system requirement of a WiFi router, Android 4.1 or higher, or iOS 9 or higher.
In conclusion, the Wemo Mini Smart Plug 3-Pack is a great solution for anyone looking to easily control their lights and appliances from anywhere. With its compact size, scheduling capabilities, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, this smart plug is a convenient and versatile addition to any home.
5. Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug, 2-Pack, Alexa & Google Compatible, Weatherproof, Timer & Countdown, No Hub Needed.
The Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug is a heavy-duty Wi-Fi outlet that is compatible with Alexa and Google Home. It is designed to work both indoors and outdoors, with an IP65 weatherproof housing that can withstand various outdoor elements. The plug allows you to control your home devices from anywhere and anytime using your smartphone, making it a convenient and efficient way to manage your appliances and electronics.
One of the key features of the Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug is its remote and voice control functionality. With Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, you can use your voice to control your devices, making it a hands-free and effortless experience. This feature allows you to turn off and on your plugged-in appliances without having to physically reach for the plug.
The Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug is also ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It can be used in a variety of locations, including the garden, backyard, kitchen, bathroom, porch, balcony, garage, basement, patio, or electric grill, sprinkler, washing machine, Christmas tree, landscape lighting, fountains, lamps, pumps, and other outdoor or indoor-use electric appliances. This versatility makes it a useful addition to any household.
Another useful feature of the Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug is its schedule and timer functionality. With this feature, you can set your socket to turn on and off automatically, saving you time and energy. You can also avoid leaving your appliances on by accident, which can lead to higher electricity bills.
Setting up the Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug is fast and easy. All you need to do is plug in the smart outdoor outlets, download the SmartLife App, connect to your Wi-Fi network, and control your devices via your phone. You don't need any special bridges, gateways, or hubs, making it a straightforward process.
In conclusion, the Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug is a convenient and efficient way to manage your appliances and electronics. Its remote and voice control functionality, schedule and timer features, and easy setup make it a useful addition to any household. With its heavy-duty design and weatherproof housing, you can use it both indoors and outdoors without worrying about damage.
6. Z-Wave Plus On/off Plug With Two Smart Outlets, Works With Alexa, Smartthings, And Wink (Zw97) – Zwave Hub Required.
The Outdoor Z-Wave Plus On/Off Light and Appliance Plug with Two On/Off Smart Outlet is a weather-resistant device that allows you to control your outdoor lighting and appliances wirelessly. It is compatible with Z-Wave certified hub/gateway and can be used with SmartThings, Wink, Vera, Fibaro, Hubitat, HomeSeer, and other similar hubs.
This product features two Z-Wave smart outlets that can be controlled independently. Additionally, it comes with two integrated weather-resistant outlet covers that can protect the module from dirt and debris when the outlets are not in use. The supported voltage for this device is 120 VAC, and the maximum total load it can handle is 15Amp.
The Outdoor Z-Wave Plus On/Off Light and Appliance Plug can work with LED, CFL, halogen, incandescent bulbs, and other devices. It can be scheduled wirelessly, and you can control it from anywhere using your mobile device. With Alexa voice control, you can use your voice to control the device using an Alexa-supported hub for voice control with Amazon Echo products. However, it cannot connect directly with ECHO PLUS, as only ZigBee products can connect directly to Echo Plus.
This product is IP65 waterproof-rated for outdoor use, meaning it can withstand harsh outdoor environments. However, it should not be immersed in water.
In conclusion, the Outdoor Z-Wave Plus On/Off Light and Appliance Plug with Two On/Off Smart Outlet is an excellent device for outdoor lighting and appliances. Its wireless capabilities and compatibility with various hubs make it easy to integrate into your smart home system. Its weather-resistant design and IP65 waterproof rating make it a durable and reliable choice for outdoor use.
7. Bp350 Blu Ray Player + Orei Travel Plug Adapter For Worldwide Use – Pal/ntsc – Zone A B C
The BP350 Region Zone Code Free Blu Ray Player is a high-quality device that offers an exceptional movie and TV experience. With its built-in 4k NTSC⇔PAL 4k HD Converter, this player can handle Blu Ray Disc Zones A/B/C and DVD Regions 0123456789 PAL/NTSC, making it a truly versatile player for worldwide use.
The player features progressive scan technology that delivers flicker-free images with no image break-up, ensuring a perfect viewing experience. Additionally, the player is equipped with high-resolution audio, Dolby Atoms, and DSEE HX Anti-vibration construction for clearer sound, allowing you to hear more detail.
The BP350 Region Zone Code Free Blu Ray Player offers a range of playback functions, including DVD, CD, DivX, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG 4, MP3, WMA, and Jpeg. It also features advanced smart features such as USB direct recording, progressive scan, and a 192khz-24 bit Audio DAC Interface. The player is equipped with component video out, coxial audio out, and USB connectivity, making it easy to connect to other devices.
One of the standout features of the BP350 Region Zone Code Free Blu Ray Player is its compatibility with LG Smart Hi-Fi devices. Users can connect their LG Smart Hi-Fi compatible device to their network and easily send music from their CD or USB to LG Music Flow Speakers. This feature allows users to have all of their content at their fingertips and easy to control.
In summary, the BP350 Region Zone Code Free Blu Ray Player is a high-quality device that offers exceptional performance and versatility. With its advanced features and compatibility with LG Smart Hi-Fi devices, this player is a great choice for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line Blu Ray player.
8. Wyze Plug Outdoor: Dual Outlet Smart Plug With Energy Monitoring, Alexa And Google Assistant Compatible, No Hub Required.
The Wyze Plug Outdoor is a smart plug that offers dual outlets and energy monitoring capabilities. This device is a Certified for Humans product, meaning that it is designed to be easy to set up and use for anyone, regardless of their level of technical expertise.
One of the key features of the Wyze Plug Outdoor is its ability to help users consume less energy. The device can set energy consumption alerts and provide historical usage data through the Wyze app, allowing users to make informed decisions about their energy usage.
Another benefit of the Wyze Plug Outdoor is its long-range WiFi capabilities. With an extended range of up to 300 feet in open space, users can confidently control their outdoor outlets from anywhere in their home.
The Wyze Plug Outdoor is also designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. With an IP64 rating for weather resistance, the device can safely be used in areas that are exposed to rain, dust, dirt, and snow.
With two independent outlets, users have greater control over their outdoor lighting and other devices. The Wyze Plug Outdoor can turn off one outlet while leaving the other on, allowing users to keep their inflatable snowman standing strong while turning off their outdoor lights.
Controlling the Wyze Plug Outdoor is easy with the Wyze app or voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant. Users can turn their lights on or off without having to go outside, making it a convenient and efficient way to manage their outdoor devices.
Overall, the Wyze Plug Outdoor is a reliable and versatile smart plug that offers energy monitoring, long-range WiFi, weather resistance, and easy app and voice control. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their outdoor energy management and control.
9. Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack, Wi-Fi Outlet For Smart Home, Alexa, Google Home & Ifttt Compatible, Remote Control, 15 Amp, Ul Certified, No Hub Required.
The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 is a set of four smart home Wi-Fi outlets that work seamlessly with Alexa, Echo, Google Home, and IFTTT. This product allows users to control their home electronic appliances with their voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It is compatible with Android 5.0 or higher and iOS 10.0 or higher.
With the Kasa app, users can turn electronics on and off from anywhere with their smartphone. Whether they are at home, in the office, or on vacation, they can easily control their smart home devices. Additionally, the app provides timer or countdown schedules to set the wifi smart plug to automatically turn on and off any home electronic appliances such as lamps, fans, humidifiers, Christmas lights, and more. The Kasa app is free and compatible with iOS 10.0 or later.
The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 is easy to set up and use. A 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection is required, and users simply need to plug in the device, open the Kasa app, and follow the simple instructions to enjoy its benefits.
Designed and developed in Silicon Valley, the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 is trusted by over 5 million users and has been named the reader’s choice for PCMag 2020. Additionally, it is UL certified for safety use, ensuring that users can trust and rely on this product.
In summary, the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 is a smart choice for anyone looking to control their home electronic appliances with ease. With voice control, remote access, scheduling options, and a simple setup process, this product is both convenient and reliable.
Best Uses For Smart Plug FAQs
Are there any safety concerns when using a smart plug?
As with any smart device, there are potential safety concerns when using a smart plug. These concerns are primarily related to electrical safety and cybersecurity.
Electrical safety concerns include overload protection, proper grounding, and fire hazards. It is essential to ensure that the smart plug you are using is compatible with the electrical system in your home and that it has been tested and certified by a reputable laboratory.
Cybersecurity concerns include the possibility of hacking and unauthorized access to the smart plug and the devices connected to it. It is essential to use a secure Wi-Fi network, keep the smart plug's firmware up to date, and use strong passwords to minimize the risk of cybersecurity threats.
Overall, by taking the necessary precautions and following the manufacturer's instructions, you can safely use a smart plug to control your home's appliances and devices.
Can I use a smart plug to automate my home appliances?
Yes, you can use a smart plug to automate your home appliances. A smart plug allows you to control your appliances remotely using your smartphone, tablet or voice assistant devices. You can schedule when your appliances turn on and off, monitor their energy usage, and even control them when you're away from home.
Smart plugs are easy to install and use. You simply plug your appliance into the smart plug, connect it to your Wi-Fi network, and start controlling it using the app on your smartphone or tablet. You can also use voice commands if you have a compatible voice assistant device like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Using smart plugs to automate your home appliances can save you time, money, and energy. You can set up schedules to turn off appliances when they're not in use, reducing your energy bills. You can also automate your lights to turn on when you're not home, giving the impression that someone is still in the house.
Overall, smart plugs are a great way to make your home smarter and more efficient.
How can a smart plug help me save energy and reduce my electricity bill?
A smart plug can help you save energy and reduce your electricity bill by allowing you to control your appliances remotely and set schedules for their usage. By turning off or limiting the usage of appliances that consume a lot of electricity, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and save money on your electricity bill. For example, you can set your smart plug to turn off your TV, computer, or other electronics when they are not in use, or schedule your lights to turn off automatically when you leave home. Additionally, some smart plugs come with energy monitoring features that allow you to track your energy usage and identify areas where you can reduce your consumption further. By making small changes in your daily routine and using a smart plug, you can save energy and money while also reducing your environmental impact.
How can I control my smart plug through a mobile app?
To control a smart plug through a mobile app, you need to follow a few steps. Firstly, you need to ensure that the smart plug is connected to a Wi-Fi network and is compatible with the mobile app you want to use. Download and install the mobile app from the app store and create an account if required. Once installed, open the app and follow the instructions to connect the smart plug to the app. Once connected, you can use the app to turn the smart plug on or off, set schedules or timers, and monitor energy usage. Some smart plugs may also offer additional features such as voice control via virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. It is important to note that different smart plugs may have different setup procedures, so it is essential to read the user manual or follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
What are some common uses for a smart plug?
A smart plug is a device that can be connected to a power outlet and controlled remotely using a smartphone or a voice assistant. Some common uses for a smart plug include turning on and off lights, controlling home appliances, scheduling devices to turn on or off, monitoring energy usage, and creating automation routines.
Smart plugs can also be used for home security, such as turning on lights automatically when you’re away, or setting up a random schedule for lights to give the impression that someone is home. They can also be used to control outdoor lighting, holiday decorations, and other devices that need to be turned on and off regularly.
Overall, smart plugs offer convenience, flexibility, and energy efficiency for a variety of household tasks, making them a popular choice for smart home enthusiasts.