Smart plugs are an excellent option to convert your existing appliances into smart ones. They allow you to turn the device on or off remotely or according to a schedule. Whether you want to turn on your coffee machine/smoothie maker while in bed or need to heat the living room before reaching home, a smart plug can make the same possible. There is no need to replace your existing appliances for converting your home into a smart one. Smart plugs work with a wide range of gadgets that include small devices like lamps, TVs, and laptops, as well as large ones like heaters, air conditioners, ovens, and electric cookers. They are available from various manufacturers and come in different wattage ratings to suit diverse usage scenarios.
What are Smart Plugs?
Smart plugs are gadgets that turn regular appliances into smart ones. You can switch devices on or off remotely via an app or by issuing voice commands through a virtual assistant. The smart plug goes into the outlet while the appliance is plugged into the device. It allows you to control the power supply to the appliance remotely. An internet connection is required by the plug to enable access. There may be an integrated Wi-Fi module or it may require a smart bridge for the same.
While smart plugs have the same basic functionality, they may employ different protocols for communication. Most of them use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-wave, or Zigbee protocols, although a few proprietary technologies also exist. Smart plugs that use Z-wave or Zigbee may require a smart hub to enable user access, while those with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi can function independently.
How Smart Plugs Work?
Smart plugs work by simply enabling you to control the power delivery to the plugged appliance. Generally, you switch appliances on or off through a switch associated with the outlet. However, a smart plug has built-in circuitry that enables the same control through software or smartphone apps. The plug connects to the smartphone directly via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth or indirectly through a Z-wave or Zigbee smart hub. When you turn the smart plug on through the app, it starts supplying power to the appliance, turning it on. It stops power delivery when you instruct it to do so. Most smart plugs allow you to set a schedule for turning the appliance on or off automatically. They can be controlled through virtual assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. Some of them even record the energy consumed by the device.
How to Choose a Smart Plug
If you are in the market for a smart plug, there are many models available from manufacturers. Here are a few things to consider when buying a smart plug.
1. Virtual Assistant Compatibility
The chances are that you will be using a smart plug with a virtual assistant. Therefore, you may want to consider if your preferred virtual assistant is supported by it. A smart plug may work with only specific virtual assistants. Most of them are compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, but Apple HomeKit-compatible devices are not that common. Ensure that the model that you are buying works with the virtual assistant of your choice. Otherwise, you may not be able to control it through voice commands.
2. Wattage Rating
Buyers must consider the wattage rating of smart plugs. Their manufacturers specify the maximum wattage and current rating for the products. They may generally be rated for 5A, 10A, and 15A. While regular appliances like lamps, TVs, and bulbs will work with a 5A smart plug, heavier appliances like air conditioners, heaters, induction cookers, and microwave ovens will require at least a 10A smart plug. Using a 5A plug with a high-wattage appliance may overheat the smart plug, damage its circuitry, and even cause a fire. Therefore, ensure that the smart plug’s rating is suitable for the target appliance.
3. Hub Requirement
Many smart plugs may require a smart-home hub for operation. Models with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality can be operated directly. However, smart plugs that rely on Z-wave, Zigbee, or other proprietary protocols may need a smart bridge or hub for enabling remote access. Some of them can still be controlled without a hub as long as your smartphone is in their proximity. But for allowing remote access, a bridge may be necessary. It will increase the total expenditure that you will incur.
4. Energy Monitoring
Energy monitoring is another feature that buyers may want to consider when choosing a smart plug. Some of the models can calculate and store the amount of power consumed by the plugged device. It can be beneficial if you want to monitor how much energy is being used by a particular appliance and what you are paying for it. You can use the device at off-peak hours to reduce your electricity bills. Therefore, a smart plug with energy monitoring capability may be beneficial to you.
5. Scheduling
In addition to allowing remote access, many smart plugs may enable users to set schedules and scenes. Instead of manually switching the plugged device, you can set a routine to turn the device on or off at a specific time. Your air conditioner may switch on just as you leave your office to ensure a comfortable environment. The induction cooker can start preparing your dinner at the stipulated hour. Lamps and lighting fixtures may be scheduled to turn on or off with sunset and sunrise. A smart plug that supports scheduling can be highly convenient for busy homeowners.
In addition to the above features, buyers may want to consider the design of smart plugs. Most of them have bulky designs and may block adjacent outlets. If you want to avoid such a situation, consider a smart plug with a slim design. The price of smart plugs may be another factor that can impact your buying decision. Models that have an extensive feature set will be more expensive.
Smart plugs are available from different brands. They have varying features and specifications, and buying the right one may be confusing. The above considerations can assist you in choosing the right product for your home.
