A smart plug is a smart home device that plugs into a traditional electrical outlet and lets you control anything plugged into it via the app or virtual assistant. The smart plug makes even ordinary non-smart devices a part of the smart home network. It makes it possible to control various devices such as table lamp, kettle, coffee machine, toaster remotely or depending on a predefined time program.
A smart plug is a smart home device that plugs into a traditional electrical outlet and lets you control anything plugged into it via the app or virtual assistant. The smart plug makes even ordinary non-smart devices a part of the smart home network. It makes it possible to control various devices such as table lamp, kettle, coffee machine, toaster remotely or depending on a predefined time program.
A smart plug is a type of switch that works like a typical light switch. The difference between a smart plug and a light switch is that an app controls the power, rather than a physical button. On some smart sockets, there is also a physical button that is used to turn the socket on and off in cases where the internet connection is lost.
The smart plug can work with any standard plug. To use the smart plug, there is no need to make an additional electrical or mechanical connection other than plugging it in. The device plugged into a smart outlet does not need to be smart.
Advanced smart plugs that can measure power and provide real-time energy usage reports help energy management. Smart plugs that monitor energy usage make it possible to detect high power consuming devices. It is possible to save energy by reducing the use of these devices.
If the smart plug is compatible with smart assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, a call is all it takes to turn devices on or off. Some smart plugs require a hub or bridge for voice control, while others can operate on their own.
A smart plug is the easiest and cheapest way to start a smart home project. There are many smart plug brands such as Xiaomi, S-Link, Bilicra, SONOFF, TP-Link, Wemo, Ring, Wyze and Lutron.
There are also smart sockets designed for outdoor use, which are durable and robust in outdoor weather conditions.
Many of the users prefer smart plugs to secure their home while on vacation. It plugs a lamp or two into smart sockets in the home and automatically turns them on and off at specified times. Some apps allow programming sockets to randomly turn on and off.
Smart plugs use 1-2W of power while plugged in, even when turned off. However, considering that much higher power devices are controlled and turned off when not needed, the conclusion that it is a unique solution for energy saving will not change.
